Tinnitus & Hyperacusis

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 Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears) and hyperacusis (increased sensitivity to everyday sounds) affect millions of people. They can be frustrating, exhausting, and isolating, especially if you've been told "there's nothing that can be done."

That's not true. While there isn't always a single cure, there is a great deal we can do to help you manage these conditions, reduce their impact, and get back to living life on your terms.

 Tinnitus is the perception of sound for example ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, or humming, when there is no external source making that noise. It's not a disease itself, but a symptom that can be linked to hearing changes, noise exposure, stress, or other underlying factors. Sometimes, no clear cause is found.Tinnitus can be:

• Constant or come and go
• Mild and barely noticeable, or loud and distressing
• In one ear, both ears, or seem to come from "inside the head"

 Hyperacusis is a reduced tolerance to everyday sounds, noises that wouldn't normally bother other people (like a dishwasher, traffic, or a crowded room) can feel too loud, uncomfortable, or even painful. It often occurs alongside tinnitus, but can also happen on its own. 

 Everyone's experience of tinnitus and hyperacusis is different, so your care is tailored to you. Depending on your needs, your care may include:

• A thorough assessment to understand your hearing, your symptoms, and how they're affecting your life
• Education and reassurance — understanding what's happening often reduces distress on its own
• Sound therapy to help your brain "tune out" the tinnitus over time
• Counselling-based approaches to reduce the emotional impact of your symptoms
• Gradual, gentle techniques to rebuild your tolerance to everyday sounds if you have hyperacusis
• Hearing aids or other devices, where appropriate, especially if you also have hearing loss
• Support with sleep, concentration, and stress, which are often affected by tinnitus and hyperacusis

 What to Expect at Your First Appointment  

1. A conversation about your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect you
2. A hearing assessment, if needed, to check for any underlying hearing changes
3. Time to ask questions — no rushing, no judgement
4. A personalised plan, explained clearly, with realistic next steps

There's no such thing as "too minor" or "too complicated" — if it's affecting you, it's worth talking about.
 

Will my tinnitus go away completely? For some people, tinnitus reduces or becomes far less noticeable over time. For others, the goal is to reduce its impact so it no longer dominates daily life. We'll be honest with you about what to expect.

Is there a pill that can cure tinnitus? Currently, there is no medication that cures tinnitus. However, there are effective, evidence-based approaches that can significantly reduce distress and improve quality of life.

Can hyperacusis be treated? Yes — many people see real improvement with the right, gradual approach. It takes time and consistency, but progress is possible.

Do I need a referral?

Depending on your symptoms and the severity, yes you may require a referral to either an Ear,  nose & Throat consultant or a different healthcare professional. The Hearing Therapist will ask you some questions which will help us to make a decision.