Sounding out to raise awareness of tinnitus

Post on 7th February 2017

Have you heard about tinnitus?

One in ten adults is affected by the ringing, buzzing or humming in the ears condition which can strike at any age and have varying impacts on a sufferer’s quality of life.

Tinnitus Awareness Week (6-12 February) will highlight an issue which is more common in people who have hearing loss or other ear problems, but it also affects those with normal hearing. There is currently no cure; however there are effective ways to manage it.

This year’s theme ‘Together for Tinnitus’ aims to generate discussion about tinnitus and raise awareness of the work being carried out and support provided by the British Tinnitus Association and other services across the UK, at hospitals and support groups etc.

It is said that about 30% of people will experience tinnitus at some point in their lives while the number of people who live with persistent tinnitus is approximately 10%.

This week is a timely reminder to think about our hearing, to look after it and not take it for granted.

Although the exact causes of tinnitus are not known we do know that frequent, prolonged exposure to loud noise increases the risk of getting tinnitus, or of making it worse. It makes sense then to take care to avoid very loud sounds, or protect your ears against them. The advice is to wear proper ear protectors when hammering metal, using power tools or when you are near any noisy motors, for example.

Ear protection is also important if you watch live music or play in a band or orchestra. Don’t pump up the volume too much on your portable music devices if you value your ears is sound advice too.

Once hearing is damaged there is no miracle cure, so taking care to protect your hearing is advisable whatever your age.

To learn more about tinnitus you will find comprehensive information at the British Tinnitus Association’s website www.tinnitus.org.uk

If you have any worries about your hearing you can find help and advice and free hearing checks at your local Scrivens branch