Liverpool backs Tinnitus Week 2019

Liverpool backs Tinnitus Week 2019     

People from Liverpool who suffer with tinnitus are being invited to a special event as part of Tinnitus Week 2019.

The Aintree Tinnitus Support Group, one of more than 100 groups supported by the British Tinnitus Association (BTA) across the UK, is holding a meeting on Wednesday 6 February 2019 for people with the often debilitating hearing condition to come together and share their experiences.

During the week, which runs from 4-10 February, activities will be taking place up and down the country and this year there is a particular focus on isolation.

David Stockdale, chief executive of the BTA, said: “It’s estimated that six million people live with tinnitus in the UK and according to our research, sixty one percent of people with tinnitus say their condition makes them feel isolated.

“Throughout Tinnitus Week we will be issuing tips and guidance on isolation topics including tinnitus and sleep, relationships and social situations.

“We know with the right support network in place and the right guidance, people with tinnitus can live perfectly normal lives so during the week we’ll also highlight the huge benefits that can come from our UK network of support groups. Ninety-five percent of people who attend our groups say they feel less isolated by doing so, proving the value of meeting like-minded people and sharing experiences.”

The Aintree Tinnitus Support Group, which has just celebrated its 10th anniversary, has around 30-40 people attend each monthly meeting. It is run by Aintree University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and supported by the BTA.

Tony Kay, head of audiology services at Aintree University Hospital, specialises in tinnitus and facilitates the support group, said: “Tinnitus – noises in the ear, ears or head – affects approximately ten percent of the adult population and it can be annoying for some

“Sometimes it can feel like nobody else understands what you’re going through and you may feel isolated and on your own. Nobody with tinnitus should feel alone and tinnitus support groups, such as the one held at Aintree, can help support you. I would always encourage anyone who suspects they have tinnitus to contact their GP for advice. The BTA and the support group network are also a valuable source of information and support.

“We hope as many people as possible will join us for our next meeting on 6 February as part of Tinnitus Week.”

The Aintree Tinnitus Support Group meeting will take place on Wednesday 6 February in Room 2.07 of the Clinical Science Centre at Aintree University Hospitals NHS Foundation between 6pm and 7.30pm. The venue is accessible for people with disabilities, and an induction loop is fitted for hearing aid users.

To contact the Aintree Tinnitus Support Group please email audiology@aintree.nhs.uk.

Tinnitus is described as a sensation or awareness of sound that is not caused by an external sound source. Approximately half of those patients find it moderately or severely distressing, with complaints of intrusiveness, emotional stress, insomnia, auditory perceptual problems and difficulties with concentration.

For tinnitus support or to find out more about Tinnitus Week 2019, please visit the British Tinnitus Association’s website: www.tinnitus.org.uk or call the BTA’s confidential freephone helpline on 0800 018 0527.