Tinnitus service
What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of noises in the head and/or ear(s) which have no external source. 10% of adults in the UK experience tinnitus. It can be ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, humming or another noise. The noise can be constant or intermittent and it can vary in volume. Many people with tinnitus are not affected by it, but for others it can have a profound effect.
How to access our tinnitus service
Your GP can refer you directly to the tinnitus clinic for a tinnitus assessment or you may be referred from the ear, nose and throat department for tinnitus management.
Our tinnitus service provides information, counselling and advice about tinnitus and the strategies available that can be used to manage tinnitus to make it less intrusive. If hearing loss is apparent then you may be offered hearing aids. Usually when hearing is improved tinnitus can subside significantly.
Keighley Tinnitus Support Group
In connection with the British Tinnitus Association we are a registered support group with GOLD standard accreditation. The Keighley Tinnitus Support Group is open for people to meet others living with tinnitus in a friendly atmosphere.
Meetings are held in our education centre at Airedale hospital and start at 3pm. New members are always welcome. For more information please contact the audiology department.
Noise sensitivity (hyperacusis)
Hyperacusis is an increased sensitivity to sound and it can be more common in people with tinnitus. People with hyperacusis can feel that sound in general or certain sounds are uncomfortable or painfully loud, even when they are not particularly intense and might not bother other people. The tinnitus service provides information and guidance so that a person with hyperacusis can gradually be exposed to a variety of sounds.
Please contact Katie Davenport, senior audiologist if you have any questions about the tinnitus service on 01535 293646.
Useful Links
British Tinnitus Association (BTA)
The BTA is a charity providing support and advice about tinnitus
BTA Tinnitus Helpline (Freephone) 0800 018 0527
www.tinnitus.org.uk
Action on Hearing Loss Tinnitus Helpline
Tel: 0808 808 6666 (Freephone)
Text: 0808 808 0007
SMS: 0780 000 0360
Fax: 020 7296 8199
Email: tinnitushelpline@rnid.org.uk
