Living with tinnitus

Our expert tips can help to relieve the symptoms

- FAYE M SMITH

Often hear ringing, humming, hissing or whooshing noises, even when it’s silent? You could have tinnitus. It can occur at any age, with around 30% of Brits experiencing the sensation at some point, and 10% having it persistently. ‘It can cause great distress and anxiety, particularly at the onset,’ says senior audiologist Duncan Collet- Fenson (astonhearing.co.uk). ‘Yet while there’s currently no cure, there are ways to make life more bearable.’ Here’s what can help…

What is it?

‘Tinnitus is characterized by sounds that appear to be originating in the body or head, rather than from an outside source,’ says Duncan. You may also have reduced hearing, ear pain or discharge, nausea or vertigo (when the room 'spins'). ‘Tinnitus is not a disease but usually a symptom of another underlying condition,’ adds Duncan.

What causes tinnitus?

The most common cause is damage to the inner ear, the cochlea. ‘This can occur from exposure to noise,’ says Duncan. It’s also caused by:

• Certain prescription drugs, especially if your ear is blocked with wax, or you have an ear infection or perforation.

• Changes in blood pressure, which can mean tinnitus is a useful ‘early warning sign’ of a more serious condition.

• Stress and anxiety.

• Problems in nearby arteries/tissues.

See your GP immediately