Londoner highlights tinnitus misery
William Nunn who lives near Wimbledon in London developed tinnitus suddenly in 2002 after listening to live music. During the first few months he was plunged into despair and suffered depression and chronic insomnia.
His situation has gradually improved and the ringing and hissing sounds in his ears are now less intrusive but he knows of numerous cases where people’s lives have been turned upside down by this miserable condition.
“The unhappiness that tinnitus can cause is absolutely immense and can really mess up lives. The levels of noise that some people hear are unimaginable but very little seems to be known about it,” he explained. His own doctors have been helpful and understanding but, through extensive research and contact with fellow sufferers, he knows that isn’t always the case.
William, 26, is also concerned that tinnitus is on the increase particularly among the younger generation and firmly believes that the risks of excessive noise exposure should be highlighted. “People really do need to know the facts to stop them from going through this experience,” he stressed. The UK and our society in general is becoming much noisier especially with advances in technology and some manufacturers just don’t seem to care.
William now carries a good set of earplugs with him to use if needed and has become more used to keeping his tinnitus under control. Even though his condition has currently improved, William is fully aware that it may worsen in future and already knows through experience that unrelated illnesses can make it much more acute. He feels strongly that a cohesive scientific approach is needed to combat the problem.
“There seems to be no joint study protocol in place between institutions which makes me less hopeful of a cure being found but more research is vital,” he said. “People should also realise that there are a lot of charlatans about who target tinnitus and make money by marketing fake cures. When people are desperate, they’ll try any so-called remedy that’s around but one of the most important things is to find a receptive doctor who’s willing to listen to what patients have to say. That and a strong support network of family and friends are crucial for anyone in this situation,” he added.
If you would like to help us increase awareness of tinnitus, why not become a Regional Ambassador for Deafness Research UK? By getting our message across to other people, our objective is to raise further funds to conduct the research that will bring relief for millions of people like you. Click here for further information, or call the Deafness Research UK Information Service on 0808 808 2222.
