TINNITUS
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the name given to the condition of noises 'in
the ears' and/or 'in the head' with no external source.
Tinnitus noises are described variously as ringing, whistling,
buzzing and humming.
The word tinnitus describes the sensation of hearing a noise
in the absence of any external sound. This noise may be
heard in one ear, both ears or in the middle of the head
or it may be difficult to pinpoint its exact location. The
noise may be low, medium or high-pitched. There may be a
single noise or two or more components. The noise may be
continuous or it may come and go.
What causes Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is not a disease or am illness, it is a symptom
generated within a person's own auditory pathways. Although
it is often assumed that tinnitus occurs as a result of
disease of the ears, this is often not the cause. The precise
cause of tinnitus is still not fully understood.
Who gets Tinnitus?
Experiences of tinnitus are very common in all age groups,
especially following exposure to loud noise, however, it
is unusual for it to be a major problem. There is a widely
held misconception that tinnitus is confined to the elderly,
but various studies have shown that it can occur at any
age, even quite young children. Mild tinnitus is common
- about 10 per cent of the population have it all the time
and, in up to one per cent of adults, this may affect the
quality of their life.
If you think you have Tinnitus
See your doctor. Tinnitus is rarely an indication of a serious
disorder, but it is wise to see your doctor if you think
you might have it. Should something treatable be causing
it, you might be referred to a specialist.
Try not to worry
The noises may seem worse if you are anxious or stressed.
When tinnitus starts, particularly if it's sudden, you may
naturally be frightened and your concentration or your sleep
may be disturbed. You may get angry and frustrated because
no-one else understands, or you may live alone and not have
anyone to talk to about it - that's where the BTA can help.
Find out more
You will probably feel better when you find out more about
the condition - that it's very common and you're not alone.
Many people say that they notice tinnitus less when they
are doing something. Keeping your mind occupied helps (but
don't overdo things). If the noises seem louder at quiet
times, particularly during the night, it may help to have
soothing music or some other environmental or natural sound
quietly on in the background. Practising relaxation and
taking time out for yourself can also be a great help. If
you would like to talk to someone about any problems you
have, we can put you in touch with a support group near
you. A lot of groups are run by people who are living with
tinnitus - personal contact and shared experiences are very
useful.
Information Courtesy of:
The British Tinnitus Association
The Association was founded over twenty years ago by people
with tinnitus for people with tinnitus
For Further information visit the website:
www.tinnitus.org.uk
