Raising Awareness of Tinnitus
Post on 5th February 2018
It’s a condition that affects one in ten adults and for which there is currently no cure.
Tinnitus Awareness Week (5-11 February) seeks to shine a light on how it impacts people’s lives. This year the British Tinnitus Association will focus on children and young people with its ‘Kids Talk Tinnitus’ campaign.
Sadly the ringing, buzzing or humming in the ears condition can strike at any age and to varying degrees. Although more common in those who have hearing loss or other ear problems, it also affects those with normal hearing. There may be no cure, but there are effective ways to manage it and there are services and support available.
The exact causes of tinnitus are not known but frequent, prolonged exposure to loud noise increases the risk of getting tinnitus, or of making it worse. It makes sense then for all of us to take care to avoid very loud sounds, or protect our ears against them.
Always use proper ear protectors when hammering metal, using power tools or working near any noisy motors, for example. Take care when watching live music or if you play in a band or orchestra. And however tempting, don’t turn up the volume to maximum on your portable music devices.
Looking after your hearing is worth it because damage caused cannot be undone.
To learn more about tinnitus visit the British Tinnitus Association’s website at www.tinnitus.org.uk
If you have any worries about your hearing you can find help, advice and free hearing checks at your local Scrivens branch. Simply enter your postcode below to find your local branch.