TINNITUS

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF TINNITUS?

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The symptoms can vary between individuals and can range from ringing, buzzing, pulsating, hissing, whooshing, whistling or humming sounds in the ear. It may be continuous or intermittent and can affect one or both ears, middle of your head or can be difficult to specify. It can also vary in loudness and may become more noticeable in a quiet place or when tired

 

WHO GETS TINNITUS?

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Tinnitus is a common condition affecting about 30% of people at any stage in their lives. It can affect people from all age groups and is often common in people experiencing hearing loss or other ear problems. Approximately, 10% of people live permanently with Tinnitus which can affect their quality of life.

 

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR TINNITUS? 

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Management of tinnitus aims to reduce the impact this condition has on the quality of life of the sufferer, rather than the complete removal of the noise. For people with mild tinnitus a simple explanation and reassurance is all that is required. For more obtrusive tinnitus, the following management strategies can also be used:

 

• Counselling

• Relaxation techniques

• Using a hearing aid (if associated with hearing loss)

• Sound therapy- Uses an electronic device that emits low level soothing sound to distract or mask the tinnitus thus aiding sleep

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

• Addressing Sleeping problems

• Mindfulness mediation