What Is Tinnitus? Understanding the Ringing in Your Ears
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external noise is present. Commonly described as a ringing in the ears, it can also sound like buzzing, hissing, whistling, or clicking. These phantom sounds may be constant or intermittent, and can occur in one or both ears.
For many people in Wigan, Standish, and surrounding areas, tinnitus can be a source of stress, discomfort, and even sleep disturbance. At Wigan Hearing, we understand how disruptive this condition can be — and we’re here to help.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Tinnitus isn’t a disease in itself but rather a symptom of an underlying issue. Common causes include:
Prolonged exposure to loud noise (e.g. music venues, power tools, headphones)
Age-related hearing loss
Earwax build-up
Ear infections or eardrum damage
Certain medications (ototoxic drugs)
Head or neck injuries
High blood pressure or cardiovascular issues
Stress or anxiety
How Common Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus affects around 1 in 7 people, with symptoms ranging from mild annoyance to severe impact on quality of life. It’s especially common among people over 50 and those with untreated hearing loss.
Is There a Cure for Tinnitus?
There is currently no cure, but tinnitus can often be successfully managed. At Wigan Hearing, we provide personalised care that may include:
Sound therapy using hearing aids or white noise
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for stress-related symptoms
Relaxation and mindfulness techniques
Lifestyle adjustments such as reduced caffeine and better sleep hygiene
We also offer tinnitus assessments that include video otoscopy, tympanometry, and hearing tests to identify potential causes.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing ongoing ringing or noise in your ears, don’t ignore it. Book a tinnitus consultation at Wigan Hearing and let our expert audiologists guide you through diagnosis, support, and relief options.
Book Your Tinnitus Assessment Today
Conveniently located in Standish, Wigan
Call us on 01257 444044 or
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