For our first tinnitus support group of May we were excited to welcome Dr Georgina Burns-O’Connell, Research Officer for the British Tinnitus Association (BTA).
Georgina came along to share the latest news in the world of Tinnitus research, and we wanted to share a few highlights.
NICE Guidelines
Nice guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations developed by independent committees, including professionals and lay members, and are consulted on by stakeholders (such as individuals affected by tinnitus).
The British Tinnitus association were involved with drafting and consultation for a recent review of this information. Their aims were to make sure that:
· people with tinnitus are taken seriously.
· more support is offered for those in distress.
· the right tests are offered.
· doctors know when to refer individuals.
The new guidelines are available online and outline the care you can expect and emphasises shared decision making. For more information, please visit: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng155/informationforpublic
COVID-19 & Tinnitus
It might be unsurprising to hear that COVID-19 has had an impact on the experience of tinnitus. One study revealed that 46% of people who live with tinnitus found it worse during the lockdowns and restrictions that we have experienced.
It has also been discovered that hearing loss & auditory problems are strongly linked to COVID, with many individuals experiencing a deterioration in hearing after hospitalisation.
Tinnitus has since been acknowledged as a symptom of ‘long Covid’ and further research is ongoing.
To find out more visit: https://www.tinnitus.org.uk/tinnitus-and-covid19-research-and-studies
Music to your ears
An exciting new study from the British Tinnitus Association, in collaboration with Help Musicians and the University of Nottingham, has been released. This study explores the impact of tinnitus on musicians.
As part of the findings, recommendations include peer interaction, management through relaxation, access to understanding and informed empathy (from medical professionals and in personal relationships), and musical education which focusses on prevention and healthy hearing.
You can find out more by visiting https://www.tinnitus.org.uk/Listing/Category/musicians-with-tinnitus.
Our next session will be on Wednesday 19th May at 7pm. Sign up by visiting https://bit.ly/3vM7FVX
If you are currently experiencing tinnitus, or know someone who could benefit from our support, please get in touch by emailing tinnitus@signal.org.uk