Tinnitus comes from the Latin word meaning ‘to ring’. It is the perception of sound when no external sound exists but you hear it.
What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a hidden symptom. People with tinnitus hears a sound/s when no external sound is present. It can be incredibly distressing and may affect a person's quality of life.
What does tinnitus sound like?
People hear a wide variety of noises such as buzzing, humming, whistling and even singing or music.
Do people with tinnitus get other symptoms?
Tinnitus patients may also experience associated factors including hearing loss, migraine, sleep disorders, discomfort, distress, anxiety and depression.
What can help manage tinnitus?
Although there is no known cure at present, there are a number of techniques which can be used to help manage tinnitus, including:
- Tinnitus Retraining Therapy focuses on trying to reduce the distress caused by tinnitus by changing the perception of the noise. Results vary, but for around one in 10 people the tinnitus goes away and in four out of five people the tinnitus distress is reduced.
- A Tinnitus Masker can be helpful for some people find to mask the tinnitus noise. It is an electronic hearing aid device that generates and emits broad- or narrow-band noise at low levels to mask the sound of the tinnitus.
- White Noise Generators are used as part of the retraining programme. They sit inside the ear and generate a quiet ‘sssh’ noise to help break up the tinnitus and help you become accustomed to it.
What else can help tinnitus?
- Avoid silence. Use a pleasant background noise around the house.
- Do activities that improve your well-being.
- Try not exhaust yourself. Use pacing and other techniques to minimise fatigue as much as possible.
- Use relaxation therapy. There are many different ways to relax; find one that works for you.
- Ensure good sleep hygiene. A pillow masker may also be helpful if you have difficulty sleeping.
Where can I get further information and support for tinnitus?
- Read our Tinnitus Factsheet (pdf)
- Please contact us for more information - email us: info@meandve.org.uk or give us a ring: 01306 876883 to chat with a member of our team
- See your GP for advice if you have any question or concerns about your symptoms. They may refer to a specialist if neccessary
- Become a member to receive regular information, resources and updates
- Donate to support our work and help us continue supporting people affected by tinnitus and other vestibular conditions/symptoms
Other useful links (please note these are external links and will direct you away from the Ménière's & Vestibular UK website)
Please note, Ménière's & Vestibular UK can provide general information, but is unable to provide specific medical advice. You should always check with your medical professional for information and advice relating to your symptoms/condition. We cannot recommend a particular manufacturer, product, device or organisation. Please speak with your medical professional to find the most suitable hearing aid/system to suit you.