Exposure to high levels of noise is one of the most common hazards in the workplace, with inadequate protection potentially leading to lifelong damage. One consequence is the onset of tinnitus, a condition that affects almost five million people in the UK – a staggering 10% of the adult population.
A person suffering from tinnitus hears ‘noises in the head’, created in the absence of any external sound. The noise may come from one ear, may be in both ears or appear to come from the middle of the head. People often find it difficult to pinpoint exactly where the noise is coming from, and that is because it is not from a sound being heard externally – the ‘noise’ is being created internally but is perceived as a real sound.
The sound of tinnitus varies from one person to another. The noises are usually described as ringing, whistling, buzzing or humming, which can manifest themselves at a range of volumes from low, ambient noise to a level that can seem overwhelming. Some people hear the noise as a low frequency; others find it either medium or high pitched. It can manifest itself as a single noise or two or more components. The noise may be continuous for some people and may come and go for others.
The cause of tinnitus is most commonly linked to frequent and/or prolonged exposure to loud noise, which can damage the auditory system and increases the risk of getting tinnitus or potentially make it worse. However a host of other factors can increase the possibility of getting tinnitus including sudden mental or physical changes i.e. retirement, redundancy, depression, health concerns or bereavement. The onset of tinnitus can either be sudden or become more apparent over time.
The British Tinnitus Association (BTA) is committed to helping everyone in the UK cope with tinnitus: providing advice, support, information and training sessions for those suffering from it – and providing support and research for a cure.
The experienced team at the BTA understands the impact that tinnitus can have on the lives of sufferers and those who live with them, so provides the most appropriate and expert advice and information free of charge - via a free helpline on 0800 018 0527 and online at www.tinnitus.org.uk. The BTA also offers printed information and audio support via post.
If you want to learn about how to protect yourself and your workforce against high levels of noise exposure, or how you can learn to live a full and active life with tinnitus, then come and see the British Tinnitus Association’s experienced team of advisors at SED on stand BL 32 at Rockingham Motor Speedway from 13th – 15th May 2008.
BRITISH TINNITUS ASSOCIATION
Avenue:
GREEN PAV
Stand: 32
Builders Box Live
Ground Floor Unit
5 Acorn Business Park
Woodseats Close
Sheffield
S8 0TB
UK
Tel: 0114 250 9933
Fax: 0114 258 2279
info@tinnitus.org.uk
Contact: Bill Morris
