The thought of losing one’s hearing can be terrifying for many, as it means the loss of countless delightful sounds that enrich our lives. But what about the opposite scenario?
What is it like to live with a condition that ensures you will never experience silence again, where your life is constantly underscored by a relentless roar, ring, or whoosh?
This is the reality for seven million Brits, including myself, who live with tinnitus – an incurable condition where sufferers hear noises that do not come from an outside source.
Among those affected are actor and former Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp and his wife Shirlie, both of whom suffer from tinnitus. In my case, I am plagued by a constant, sometimes loud, ringing in both ears.
It’s more noticeable in the right ear than the left, but it’s always there. I first started noticing it when I was around nine or ten years old.
While it doesn’t significantly impact my life, there are moments when I wish it would just stop. My journey with tinnitus began at a young age, and in some ways, I consider myself lucky that it started when I was still a child. Growing up in a house full of siblings in London, a city that is seldom silent, also helped in the early years.
Martin and Shirlie Kemp both live with tinnitus
(Image: Getty Images for Tu at Sainsbury’s)
Consequently, there were few instances where the ringing could make its presence felt, except during quiet moments. Being very young at the time, I assumed it was an external sound, not something originating from within my own head.
As time progressed, not much changed. I learnt about tinnitus at school and looking back, the condition didn’t worsen, only manifesting itself when external sounds were minimal.
That was until one fateful night at a race track. Working as a paddock marshal at one event, I joined a colleague to watch the start of the final race.
He offered me earplugs which I foolishly declined. As the cars sped away, all I could hear for the next few minutes was an intense ringing in both ears, no other sounds could break through the intense high pitched soundtrack. Although it later subsided, my hearing was never the same again.
Since that night in the mid-to-late 2010s, I have taken steps to prevent my tinnitus from escalating. This includes wearing ear plugs at loud venues, trying to manage stress levels that can cause temporary spikes, and keeping myself occupied to distract from the noise.
While my personal journey doesn’t call for even the world’s smallest violin, being diagnosed with tinnitus as an adult can be a daunting experience and I definitely miss the loss of silence. With that in mind, I’d like to share some tips on how to manage your tinnitus.
Christopher hasn’t let the condition stop him from enjoying his passions
(Image: Christopher Sharp)
My five tips for living with tinnitus
Firstly, remember that you’re not alone. Seven million Britons are living with this condition, which means there’s a vast support network out there to help you on those particularly challenging days.
Secondly, try to embrace other sounds and let them distract your mind – whether it’s the sound of rain or traffic; allow your mind to focus on these sounds instead of the tinnitus.
Thirdly, don’t panic. From personal experience, I can tell you that stress and anxiety can make tinnitus worse, so try mindfulness techniques or find ways to relax, such as listening to music or exercising to release positive endorphins and hormones.
My fourth tip is one I’ve already touched on – protect your ears. I’m not suggesting you need to wear ear defenders to nightclubs, but affordable earplugs are readily available at places like Boots and Superdrug, allowing you to enjoy a night out without damaging your hearing.
Christopher Sharp has shared his experience of living with Tinnitus for nearly 20 years
(Image: Christopher Sharp)
Lastly, be patient. Yes, tinnitus is incurable, frustrating, and frankly, a bit rubbish, but part of living with the condition is simply getting used to it. It takes time, but gradually you’ll learn to live with it and eventually, it’ll just become that annoying noise you hear every now and then.
NHS advice on tinnitus
I am no healthcare expert and it is always best to consult the NHS guidelines on dealing with tinnitus first.
They offer various tips to deal with the condition, including avoiding exposure to loud noises, managing stress, using background noise like a fan and practice relaxation techniques.
They also say you should see a GP in certain incidents, like:
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If tinnitus is persistent or bothersome
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If it is accompanied by sudden hearing loss or dizziness
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For a proper diagnosis and to rule out any underlying conditions.
For more support about living with tinnitus, help is available at Tinnitus UK or the NHS.