The Student Life and Tinnitus
Around 1 in 8 adults in the UK suffer from tinnitus. As we start autumn and university students return to school the risks of developing tinnitus have increased. From clubs to pubs, inductions to reintroductions, social events are many. Whilst socialising is an important part of being a student people remain unaware of its effects on hearing.
What is Tinnitus and why should students care?
Tinnitus is a ringing, hissing or booming sound that is often imperceptible to those around you. Its intensity varies from mild irritation to severe debilitation. Whilst the most extreme version may only affect a small proportion of sufferers, even its mild effects could potentially have considerable repercussions.
From Joan of Arc to Charles Darwin tinnitus has been experienced by some notable historical figures. Ancient Egyptians believed that tinnitus was a consequence of a bewitched ear. Romans associated it with depression and seizure disorders.
While we still don’t know what causes it, we have more information about the likely triggers of tinnitus and its effects on the human body. Studies have shown a correlation between tinnitus and stress, and there are other potential triggers to be aware of.
So, what might trigger tinnitus?
Risk factors
- Loud noises
- Ear wax build-up
- Perforated eardrum
- Ear infections
- Ménière’s disease
- Neurological disorders
Loud clubs and the consequences
A major trigger for tinnitus listed above is loud noises. We can listen to loud nightclub music (110-120dB) for just 15 minutes before experiencing negative effects. During Freshers’ Week students visit nightclubs to experience the vibrant student life, thus exposing themselves over extended periods of time to the risk of tinnitus, and other hearing related issues.
Stress and the ear
Once a student has tinnitus, many factors can exacerbate the problem. It’s no lie that students are being asked to do more than ever during their stay at university. Studies show that tinnitus could not only increase stress/irritability but stress could increase tinnitus symptoms. So the transition between A-levels and university is a significant time.
Loud social events that can trigger tinnitus mix with stress of work, potentially making the hurdle of fitting in and studying at uni even harder.
What can students do to prevent tinnitus?
Preventions
- Don’t stand too close to speakers
- Take a break from the noise
- Wear earplugs at loud events
- Get regular check-ups
Read more here about our free hearing test service.
What can Discretion Hearing do to help?
For peace of mind Discretion Hearing offers a free hearing test service. 100% independently run, we provide a personalised hearing test that is tailored to your current requirements.. With over 30 years of experience, our audiologist knows how to properly assess your ear health and immediately advise on the appropriate solutions to the problems you may have. From ear wax removal to hearing aids, annual check-ups for your ear health are as important as your regular dental appointments.
Speak to us today or visit our website at www.discretionhearingltd.co.uk