Most people have regular health checks but how many get hearing tests?

To encourage people to think more about their hearing, Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is supporting National Tinnitus Awareness Week (2-8 February) by holding two events where people can learn about the causes of tinnitus and treatment options available.

The word ‘tinnitus’ comes from the Latin word for ‘ringing’ and is the perception of sound in the absence of any corresponding external sound. This noise may be heard in one ear, in both ears or in the middle of the head or it may be difficult to pinpoint its exact location. Although tinnitus is often described as ‘ringing in the ears’, sufferers can experience other sounds including buzzing, humming or whistling.

As well as being caused by regular exposure to loud noise, triggers for tinnitus can include ear or head injuries, infections, medication side effects and emotional stress. It is also commonly associated with age-related changes within the hearing system.

Prolonged exposure to noises over 85 decibels has also been linked to noise-induced hearing loss. Firework blasts can often have a volume over 120 decibels and participating in or watching many live sports, from motor racing to shooting, can also be a noisy activity.

Michelle Booth, Clinical Lead for Adult Audiology at the Trust, said: “We see every day the distress and frustration that tinnitus can cause. Whilst hearing damage is more common amongst those who have had prolonged exposure to noise above 85 decibels, even a single incident of exposure can trigger tinnitus.

“I would encourage anyone who is experiencing noises in their ears, or has had any distortion of their hearing for a prolonged period, to attend one of our events to learn about the condition and discuss treatment options”.

The first event will be held on Monday 2 February from 10am-midday in the main entrance at King’s Mill Hospital. Members of the audiology team and tinnitus support group members will be on hand to give out information and answer questions about tinnitus and management of the condition.

The second event will be held on the same day from 2-4pm in the Conference Centre at the hospital.

This will be an opportunity to learn about local service provision and management strategies, and to talk about tinnitus with professionals and people who are living with the condition.

This event will also incorporate the third meeting of the Mansfield, Ashfield and Newark Tinnitus Support Group.

To reserve a space at this event please contact Michelle Booth or Cheryl Gamlin on 01623 622515, extension 3036 or 3341.

More details about tinnitus can be found on the British Tinnitus Association website: http://www.tinnitus.org.uk/