Common condition that has many causes ... but which can be managed with the right advice and help

What do Chris Martin (right), Liam Gallagher (far right) and Bono all have in common? Aside from the fact that they’re three of the most successful musicians of the 21st century, they’ve also all been affected by tinnitus.

Characterised by hearing sounds in the ears or head which aren’t from an external source — such as ringing and buzzing, or even roaring, whooshing and clicking sounds — tinnitus can take a number of different forms.

“Tinnitus is a frustrating condition that produces a constant sound in one or both ears,” says Dr Sarah Brewer, medical director at Healthspan (Healthspan.com).

“It’s not a disease or illness,” she adds, explaining that tinnitus is usually related to an underlying physical or psychological problem.

A common condition, Dr Brewer says: “Tinnitus can affect anyone, and it’s found in men and women equally. It may occasionally occur in children but most commonly affects those of between 40 and 70 years of age.” While some people might experience the same sound in both ears, others may hear one type of sound in one ear and a different sound in the other.

Dr Brewer explains it’s estimated that around 10% of the UK population frequently experience tinnitus, equating to around six million people. For around 5% of these, the problem is persistent and troublesome, affecting quality of life by preventing sleep, for instance.

Although the causes of tinnitus aren’t always fully understood, it can be triggered by many factors. Exposure to loud sounds, such as loud music or machinery, is one of the most common, as it can cause permanent damage to the cells of the cochlea.

“Hearing loss, poor ear hygiene, mental health issues and your brain being unable to control your reaction to specific sounds can all contribute to tinnitus too,” adds Brewer. “Other medical conditions and certain medications can also play a role.”

According to Brewer, a build-up of wax in the ear is the most easily remedied cause. Other health issues that cause tinnitus include a viral infection of the inner ear (or ‘labyrinthitis’) and Meniere’s disease, in which fluid pressure in the inner ear increases, which can also cause severe dizziness and nausea and a sudden reduction in hearing.

Brewer adds: “Over 200 different medicines are known to damage the ears and can cause

tinnitus or problems with balance,” says Brewer. “These ototoxic drugs include high-dose aspirin, quinine, certain antibiotics and some cancer treatments, such as cisplatin and carboplatin.”

If you’re concerned that any medications you’re taking could be causing tinnitus, speak with your pharmacist and book in to see the doctor — they may be able to prescribe an alternative, or offer additional advice.

While many people experience occasional bouts of tinnitus, for some it can be an ongoing and significant problem. If this is the case, it’s important to get things checked out.

If a build-up of wax is ruled out, an audiology examination may be recommended, particularly if the tinnitus is only on one side, pulses in time with your heart rate, is associated with hearing loss or difficulties, or has persisted for six months or longer.

Tinnitus might be something you have to live with, but that doesn’t mean the situation can’t still improve. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy that helps change how you react to tinnitus. The NHS says tinnitus counselling can also aid you in learning more about your tinnitus and finding strategies to cope with it.

Brewer suggests trying a ginkgo extract, which she believes can improve blood flow to the inner ear, and possibly help tackle vertigo and tinnitus where symptoms are linked to abnormal circulation.

The general advice though is prevention, avoiding loud and ongoing noise where possible.