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Tinnitus: How to Manage the Buzz in Your Ears – Tips & Resources

Writer's picture: Deaf UmbrellaDeaf Umbrella

Tinnitus – that ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound that seems to come from nowhere – is something 1 in 10 adults in the UK deal with. If you've experienced it, you’re definitely not alone. While it can be disorienting and even disruptive, there are plenty of ways to manage and find relief from tinnitus.


Tinnitus









So, What Exactly is Tinnitus?


Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external noise is present. The sound can vary, from a constant ring to a high-pitched buzz or even a low hum. In the UK, around 10% of adults experience tinnitus, and for 5% of them, it significantly impacts their day-to-day life.


The table below shows some of the sounds people with tinnitus hear:


tinnitus awareness week. what sounds do you hear?













How Does Tinnitus Impact People?


The way tinnitus affects someone can vary from person to person. For some, it’s just a minor nuisance, while for others, it can make daily tasks challenging. Here's how it may show up in your life:

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Anxiety or stress (sometimes leading to depression)

  • Sleep disturbances



What Triggers Tinnitus?


There are a few potential causes of tinnitus, and it’s important to be aware of them so you can manage your symptoms effectively. Common triggers include:

  • Exposure to loud noises (concerts, machinery, etc.)

  • Hearing loss (especially age-related)

  • Medications with side effects

  • Head or ear injuries

  • Earwax buildup or infections

  • Emotional stress


Lifestyle habits like drinking alcohol, smoking, and too much caffeine can also worsen symptoms.


What Can You Do About It?


The good news? There are options available to manage and even reduce the impact of tinnitus. Here are some of the most common treatments and strategies:



Treatment Options:


  • Tinnitus Clinics – Specialist ear departments in hospitals offer various treatments like Biofeedback, relaxation techniques, and counselling to help you manage stress and adjust your body’s response to tinnitus.

  • Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) – This combines therapy and background sounds to help train your brain to ignore the ringing or buzzing.

  • Hearing Aids & Sound Masking Devices – These tools help block out tinnitus sounds or amplify external sounds, offering relief when other treatments don’t work.

  • Cochlear Implants – For more severe cases, these implants are being explored as potential solutions for reducing tinnitus sounds.

  • Complementary Therapies – Acupuncture, hypnosis, and chiropractic care have been shown to help lower stress levels, which can ease tinnitus.

  • Medication – Antidepressants might be prescribed if tinnitus is linked to depression, often combined with therapy to improve your overall well-being.


Lifestyle Tweaks


Small changes in your daily routine can go a long way. Consider these tips:

  • Cut down on caffeine and nicotine.

  • Avoid high doses of aspirin, which may exacerbate symptoms.

  • Go for a low-salt diet.

  • Managing stress and keeping a positive outlook can really help keep the symptoms in check.


Tinnitus Awareness Week: February 3rd – 9th, 2025


This week is Tinnitus Awareness Week  – a perfect time to raise awareness about tinnitus and the impact it has on millions. Organisations like the British Tinnitus Association offer invaluable resources and support for those affected by this condition.


How You Can Help


If you're navigating tinnitus, or have found strategies that work for you, sharing your journey can make a huge difference for others. Whether online, in support groups, or with healthcare professionals, your voice can inspire others to take control of their tinnitus.


Take Action


To learn more about tinnitus and access support resources, consider visiting websites like www.takeontinnitus.co.uk.

Additionally, supporting organsations like the British Tinnitus Association through donations can contribute to ongoing research and assistance efforts.





Though tinnitus can feel overwhelming at times, knowing the facts and having access to the right support can empower you to better manage its effects. Let’s raise awareness, share our stories, and work together to ease the burden of tinnitus for millions of people worldwide.

For a Little Laugh...



If you’re looking for a moment of humour during Tinnitus Awareness Week, we’ve shared some memes that capture the frustration and light-hearted side of living with tinnitus.


They’ve been popular on our Instagram! Take a look, have a laugh, and share with your friends: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFmwUMvzhKI/?img_index=1


Video: Tinnitus (BSL version)




 
Deaf Awareness training for companies by Deaf Umbrella

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