How to… tackle tinnitus

Dr Deborah Lee, from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy (doctorfox.co.uk), shares her tips for coping with this common but frustrating hearing problem

INVEST IN CBT

‘Cognitive behavioural therapy is designed to help you to understand tinnitus and find coping strategies. Call the British Tinnitus Association support team on 0800 018 0527 to find out more.’

TRY SOUND THERAPY

‘Tinnitus sufferers often benefit when they have a reduced awareness of the noise in the brain thanks to a distraction. Try leaving a window open, playing a CD, listening to an app or wearing a portable sound generator, known as a masker.’

IMPROVE SLEEP

‘A good bedtime routine, winding down before sleep, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol at least six hours before bedtime can help.’