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Mar 2023

Health

Complimentary events in Harrogate and Ilkley will help address tinnitus, says audiologist

Published: 6 Mar 2023, 06:10 GMT

Updated: 6 Mar 2023, 09:14 GMT

by John Grainger

This story is sponsored by The Hearing Suite

Most people know that a ringing in the ears is called tinnitus. But what if it's a buzzing, a humming, a hissing, a grinding or a whistling instead?

Well, they can all be caused by tinnitus, and contrary to popular belief, only about 10% of sufferers actually find it distressing. But for those who do, relief cannot come soon enough, so next month The Hearing Suite will be holding a series of three free events specially for people affected by tinnitus.

The Hearing Suite is an independent hearing clinic which offers a range of services, from hearing loss to balance problems, and even ear-wax removal.

Founder and managing director Emily Woodmansey, who is a qualified audiologist, said:

“One in eight people have tinnitus, and for some it can be really debilitating. People can sometimes find it difficult to follow conversations, and it can leave people feeling really low.

For some it can be torturous, almost like a dripping tap – they can’t step away from it.

“Fortunately, there are things you can do. If there’s any hearing loss – which is very common – we try to build that hearing back in, for example with hearing aids.

“With some people, where we can put in a device that masks their tinnitus. We can also have conversations about sleep levels, stress and caffeine consumption, which can all have an impact. It’s about giving people options.”

Tinnitus can affect a very broad range of ages, from young children to pensioners, and can be caused by a range of environmental factors, such as loud noises like high-volume music or power-tools. But it can also often arise when there’s a change in circumstance, and especially at times of stress.

Emily employs two other qualified expert audiologists at The Hearing Suite and works with acupuncturists in Harrogate and Ilkley to help patients deal with their tinnitus. The clinic also offers tinnitus-specific CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy), which she says can make a huge difference.

Emily said:

“Sometimes the biggest win is to help someone change their relationship with tinnitus, rather than trying to take it away altogether. It can be quite an emotional process, but led by a professional audiologist it can really help people take a hold of their tinnitus.”

Following on from Tinnitus Week earlier this month, The Hearing Suite will be holding three complimentary events:

Monday, March 6, 4.30pm Harrogate – Renowned tinnitus researcher Dr James Jackson will be sharing his perspective and talking about why tinnitus is more than just a noise.

Thursday, March 9, 4pm Harrogate – The Hearing Suite's own Dr Laura Carter and Emily Woodmansey talk about tinnitus in 2023, treatment options and their latest collaborations to offer more comprehensive care.

Friday, March 10, 11am Ilkley – Claire Hurst will talk about tinnitus and how acupuncture can help to manage it.

Places to all three events are complimentary and can be booked online.

Find out more:

If you are experiencing any hearing problems, such as tinnitus or hearing loss, make an appointment for a personal consultation at The Hearing Suite in Harrogate or Ilkley. For an informal chat about how Emily and her colleagues can help you, just call 01423 429222.

For more information, visit the website at www.thehearingsuite.co.uk.