Another update. Post ENT.

[19marv19]

Finally after being referred in July 2023 got seen by a specialist January '24.

At this moment my Tinnitus it at an all time high. It just seems to get louder and louder.

It was a very thorough appointment though.

I explained my situation, ( see previous posts ).

Had a hearing test and a thorough microsuction. My left ear has lost hearing in the high range, my right has lost some in the mid.

The Dr told me that my brain was compensating for the loss and producing the T.

I have been referred for hearing aids and also a MRI scan.

I don't feel I've lost much hearing, though would say after the suction it does seem better. However the T has not abated.

Was wondering if T elimination does occur with the use of hearing aids. Is it like brain retraining? How long and often would I have to wear them?

A little concerned because I don't think I could wear them all the time, partially because I have to wear ear plugs at work sometimes and also because I don't feel my loss in hearing is that bad.

Any responses or advice would be most appreciated.

Anyway that's an update. 🙂

Thank you.

[Happyrosie]

hi there Marv. I’ve just read your earlier posts. It’s a good thing you’ve had your ears cleared and the dr is quite right that your brain is compensating.

the part of the brain which acknowledges the T is a primitive one, and it’s saying “there’s a funny noise here, do you need to hide or run away? which keeps you anxious. And keeps you listening for it.

The website of Tinnitus UK + which I hope you are familiar with - explains why sometimes hearing aids do help. My view is that the phantom noise of T is suppressed by the real world around you.

I see from your posts that you keep listening for then T and describing it’s different sounds and do on. The trick eventually is to get to a point when you know it’s there but you take no notice.

An analogy. I used to live in a flat near a main road. The noise would keep me awake, I’d nod off then be awoken by motor bikes or emergency vehicles, drop off again then the traffic would start. I had spent all my savings and had a big mortgage and thought my life had ended.

Within a couple of months, though, I was thoroughly enjoying my life and only noticed the noise when there was something really loud.

the trick is to get to that point your tinnitus journey. How you get there is a different matter - you may need to do nothing. Except get those hearing aids!

[19marv19 in reply to Happyrosie]

Thank you for this lovely long reply Happyrosie and looking back over my previous posts too.I am looking forward to hearing what difference the aids bring.

I agree it is definitely a journey.

Thank you again.

Marv. 🙂