DO YOU get a ringing or buzzing sound in your head or ears? If so, you might be the one in two of us in the UK who have experienced tinnitus.
The number rises to over half (53.4%) for those aged 18 to 24 years-old, says national charity, Action on Hearing Loss
The condition permanently affects 6 MILLION people in the UK can have a detrimental effect on a person’s life, their relationships with family and friends and their ability to sleep, concentrate and work.
A third of people (34%) surveyed said that they are exposed to loud noise every day, with over a quarter (27%) of respondents having experienced ringing in their ears or dulled hearing after work.
40% of people didn’t know that being exposed to loud noise can lead to permanent tinnitus.
Over two-thirds (70%) of respondents were not aware of a link between tinnitus and developing hearing loss in later life.
And 85% of people are unaware or unsure of the help available.
Paul Breckell, Action on Hearing Loss chief executive, said: “The new figures demonstrate how widespread tinnitus is and highlight the fact that many of us are not aware of the potential implications of this condition.
“Being exposed to loud noise for a long time, whether through listening to loud music or working in a noisy environment can trigger tinnitus and is an indication of damaged hearing.
“Almost half of us either experienced tinnitus in the past or already living with the condition, but worryingly 85% of people are unaware or unsure of the help available.
“It’s imperative that tinnitus sufferers are referred to NHS Audiology by their GP’s to help them manage their condition.
“We as a charity run a free Tinnitus Information Line which provides vital support to those affected and their families and we would like to encourage anyone affected not to suffer in silence, but reach out for support that is out there.”
Listen to the Action on Hearing Loss tinnitus simulation (mp3 file) to discover how some people experience tinnitus via this link – under the section – What does tinnitus sound like? http://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/loud-music/tinnitus-or-ringing-in-ears.aspx
Information Line on 0808 808 0123 (freephone) or 0808 808 9000 (textphone) or email: informationline@hearingloss.org.uk
www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk
