If you can hear noise in your head or ears that has no external source and can only be heard by you, this is called tinnitus. It affects over 7 million people in the UK, its intensity can fluctuate based on factors like stress, and the exact sound heard can differ for each person affected.
Here, 71-year-old Maria shares her experience of tinnitus, how it constantly interferes with her sleep and social situations, and how cutting-edge research by RNID-funded scientists could one day give her the silent night she dreams of.
It was 14 years ago when I first woke up with tinnitus in one ear. I don’t know where it came from, but it was so distressing. I felt helpless, and I didn’t cope at all.
A few years later it developed in the other ear. It was much louder and even more difficult to deal with. Everyone experiences tinnitus differently, but for me it’s horrendous and at times it can sound like two jet engines, or like someone is screaming.
I hear it taunting me when I try to sleep. It’s always there, just as loud, morning and evening. It’s relentless. It still surprises me that no one else can hear it.”
Taking part in tinnitus research
RNID works closely with researchers from all over the world who dedicate their time to understanding more about this debilitating condition. These research projects are crucial – they’re pushing to deliver breakthroughs and treatments for tinnitus – their aim is to give people like me the peace and quiet we long for.
I volunteer for tinnitus trials because I know research will unlock answers and find treatments. Dr Will Sedley is one of these incredible researchers, studying the brain to understand how tinnitus develops and whether it can be reversed. These researchers are so close to finding a cure, I can feel it, and taking part gives me so much hope.”
Find out more about our innovative tinnitus research (PDF, 1.1MB).
Tinnitus at Christmas
I will be celebrating Christmas, but I am apprehensive about how my tinnitus will spoil the occasion. When situations become overwhelming, I often step outside for a breather. Even then, once I’m away from the noise, my tinnitus follows me.
For me, discovering a cure is about making sure this condition doesn’t ruin Christmas for future generations. I want others to be free from having to experience the distress of living with constant noise.”
Request our free tinnitus guide and discover tips to help you cope with tinnitus.
