An expert has explained the signs of an “invisible” condition that affects nearly 8 million people in the UK. February 3 to 8 marks Tinnitus Week and the condition – typically characterised by ringing or hissing sounds in the ears – affects approximately 13% of the UK population, or around 7.6 million people.
Hannah Samuels, an audiologist at Boots Hearingcare, said: “ Tinnitus can present itself in many different ways and can be categorised into various types based on its characteristics and underlying causes. The most common type, however, is subjective tinnitus, which often results from communication irregularities between the auditory nerves and the brain, or underlying issues within the ear. The most common symptom of subjective tinnitus is hearing phantom sounds.
“These sounds can take various forms, ranging from subtle background noise to more pronounced and bothersome sensations, and are often unique to each individual. Ringing, buzzing and hissing are some of the most common sounds for someone suffering from tinnitus to hear, but roaring, pulsating and clicking are also sounds you can experience.
“Tinnitus doesn’t just include hearing phantom sounds – other symptoms can include a decline in hearing and a sensitivity to everyday sounds. This can make tinnitus a really irritating and tiresome experience that can lead to stress and fatigue.
“Tinnitus can arise suddenly or develop gradually, stemming from a number of potential triggers. Prolonged exposure to loud noise, for example, when attending a nightclub or a music concert, is often a common cause due to damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear.
“Tinnitus can also result from age-related hearing loss due to the natural wear and tear of our auditory system. Other causes can include ear infections, ear wax blockages, taking certain medications, or even stress and anxiety.”
Treating tinnitus symptoms
Hannah said: “There is no definitive cure for tinnitus, however, there are various ways to effectively manage and find relief of its symptoms.”
Sound therapy
Hannah explained: “Sound therapy such as white noise, for example, can help your brain distract and retrain as it allows you to take your mind to an external sound, tuning out from the tinnitus and shifting your focus elsewhere – you can find white noise playlists on sites like youtube or music streaming apps. This is especially helpful when trying to sleep with tinnitus.”
Garlic
“Garlic and healthy ears go hand-in-hand. Its presence in your diet can help increase blood circulation and reduce inflammation in the body, especially around the cochlea, the inner ear, and the auditory nerve. In some instances, it can even help relieve symptoms of common ear conditions, such as tinnitus.”
Protect your ears
“Loud noises can be bothersome for those with tinnitus, especially if already experiencing discomfort due to a change in weather. Having earplugs at hand to protect yourself when in noisy places may be able to provide some relief.”
Earwax removal
“Professional earwax removal by a doctor or hearing care specialist is another option that can provide relief, particularly if the underlying cause of tinnitus is due to excess earwax.”
Hearing aids
“For those with intermittent tinnitus, hearing aids equipped with tinnitus sound adjustments are an option that can be really beneficial.”
Hannah added: “The best thing you can do is speak to your GP to determine the most suitable treatment strategies for your unique tinnitus experience.”
‘Don’t put it off’
Steve Smart, 55, from Southsea in Hampshire, was diagnosed with moderate hearing loss at the age of 39, after showing early signs of tinnitus. He spoke to Boots Hearingcare as part of the Great Big Hearing Test to share his experience prior to seeking help: “I had issues with my hearing for around four to five years before getting tested. I put it off for so long as it acted as a reminder that I was getting older, and I guess vanity played a part, too.
“Before receiving treatment, I felt embarrassed when I had to ask people to repeat themselves, exhausted from trying to focus, withdrawn from the tiredness, and experienced feelings of depression.
“Since receiving help, I have regained my social skills and feel able to contribute to conversations as I can hear all of what’s being said. I’m laughing again and feel happy. With the help of Boots Hearingcare, their experienced audiologist, Melissa Kelly, and having found the product that works best for me, I am 100% convinced that the benefits far outweigh the fears.”
For any adults who think they might be experiencing issues related to their ear health – whether that’s ear pain or discomfort, tinnitus, muffled speech, or even balance issues – they can book a free hearing test at a time that best suits them.