Hearing aids may significantly help millions of tinnitus sufferers

27 October 2009

New research shows lack of education may be to blame for continued resistance to hearing aids

New research published today by Deafness Research UK suggests that almost 40% of tinnitus sufferers surveyed could benefit from properly prescribed and fitted hearing aids in both ears. However, resistance to hearing aids from tinnitus sufferers is still a barrier to the relief of tinnitus symptoms, even in the groups such as the hard of hearing, who could perhaps benefit most. Over 50% of respondents said that they would not even consider wearing hearing aids to help relieve tinnitus symptoms.

Survey highlights from 1553 tinnitus sufferers who have completed the survey can be found below, with the full survey data available on request. 

Vivienne Michael, CEO of Deafness Research UK, said: “About five million people in the UK are affected by tinnitus and it can have a devastating effect on their quality of life. The good news is that we believe a significant proportion of sufferers may benefit from correctly fitted hearing aids set at the right levels. Hearing aid technology has moved on tremendously in recent years; modern devices are much more discreet and unobtrusive than the traditional hearing aids people may remember. We urge all tinnitus sufferers, particularly the deaf and hard of hearing, to review whether they have properly considered hearing aids and at least have a discussion with their GP about it.”

Deafness Research UK’s survey coincides with a new leaflet published by the charity - the country's only charity dedicated to finding new cures, treatments and technologies for the deaf, hard of hearing and other hearing impaired people including tinnitus sufferers. The new leaflet, entitled ‘Managing Tinnitus’, aims to debunk popularly held myths about tinnitus and give practical information and guidance based on the latest research available.

The Managing Tinnitus leaflet is available free of charge from Deafness Research UK on freephone 0808 808 2222, by e-mailing      

”Not enough is known about this very complex condition and we are determined to do something about it. We are committed to funding leading edge research and providing practical information to health professionals for the benefit of sufferers”, added Vivienne Michael.

Tinnitus is more common in deaf and hard of hearing people. For these people, a hearing aid may not only help to make external sounds more audible, but may reduce the perceived level of tinnitus. However, hearing aid levels should not be set too loud as this can actually worsen the tinnitus. Hearing aids are available on the NHS or privately. If tinnitus is present and has not been previously diagnosed and investigated by a hospital specialist, then the dispenser is required to advise the client to seek appropriate medical advice before proceeding with hearing aids.

Although one in seven – around 9 million people in the UK – suffer hearing loss, less than £2 per year is spent per capita on finding treatments and cures, making deafness research a ‘Cinderella’ charity desperate for further funding.

Selected survey results (full results available on request)

1553 tinnitus sufferers completed the survey

Most of the respondents that answered this questionnaire do not have hearing aids (56%). Of those respondents that have hearing aids, most (67%) were prescribed their hearing aids for hearing loss, 26% were prescribed their hearing aids for hearing loss and tinnitus, and only 7% of hearing aid users were prescribed their hearing aids for tinnitus.

Of those that wear hearing aids in one ear only, 22% said that their hearing aid reduced their tinnitus symptoms, 75% said that wearing a hearing aid in one ear made no difference to their tinnitus and only 3% said that their hearing aid worsened their tinnitus symptoms.

Tinnitus symptoms were reduced in 39% of respondents that wear hearing aids in both ears, however two hearing aids made no difference in of 57% of cases, and worsened the symptoms for 4%.

Of those who do not currently wear hearing aids, 46% said that they would consider wearing a hearing aid to help their tinnitus.

About Deafness Research UK

•  Deafness Research UK is the country’s only charity dedicated to finding new cures, treatments and technologies for deaf, hard of hearing and other hearing impaired people.

• The charity supports high quality medical research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all forms of hearing impairment including tinnitus.

• Deafness Research UK is entirely dependent on voluntary donations, gifts and personal legacies. You can donate online at www.deafnessresearch.org.uk , or call 0207 7833 1733 for further information on how to support the charity.

• The Deafness Research UK Information Service provides free information and advice based on the latest scientific evidence and informed by leading experts. The Information Service can be contacted on Freephone 0808 808 2222.      

• For more information on research into deafness, tinnitus and other hearing conditions, log on to the website at www.deafnessresearch.org.uk where you can access a wide range of information. Alternatively you can e-mail Deafness Research UK at

• One in seven people in the UK – almost nine million people - suffer hearing loss.

• Deafness Research UK was founded in 1985 by Lord (Jack) and Lady Ashley of Stoke.

• In January 2008, Action for Tinnitus Research (ATR) was linked with Deafness Research UK under a uniting direction order under section 96(6) of the Charities Act 1993. 

Press enquiries: Jon Gardner, BeyondPR. Mobile 07930 697773. Direct line 0114 275 6996. e-mail:  

Ref: DR-UK0162 – Managing tinnitus