Devon's Ringing Silence: 100,000 Adults Battle Tinnitus

In Devon, approximately one in seven adults, over 100,000 individuals, are grappling with tinnitus, a condition characterized by persistent ringing or hissing sounds. Tinnitus UK highlights a concerning increase in the South West, citing an ageing population and the prevalence of noisy occupations as contributing factors.

Accessing adequate support presents a significant hurdle for many in the region. Challenges related to limited public transport, inconsistent internet connectivity, and a scarcity of referral pathways hinder individuals from receiving timely assistance. This is particularly acute in Devon's rural and coastal areas.

Danny Knight from Tinnitus UK advises individuals with persistent ringing to seek medical attention from a GP. He notes that tinnitus can lead to stress, anxiety, insomnia, and sleeplessness as the brain attempts to process the unexplained noise.

Steve Fabian, a resident of Exeter, described his tinnitus as a loud, hissing snake that disrupts his sleep, turning life into a "battle between you and the stress of tinnitus." Lillian Arnold from Chudleigh shared a similar struggle with a "clicking" noise that began in 2020, leading to panic attacks due to its constant, inescapable nature.

NHS Devon acknowledges the difficulties in accessing services in remote areas and assures that support and treatment are available through GP and acute services. Online resources via NHS and MyHealth Devon websites also offer advice. Sally Lavender, hearing therapy lead at the Royal Devon and Exeter Healthcare Trust, stresses that sufferers are not alone and that improvements are possible over time. She encourages open communication with family and friends, and consultation with a GP, who may refer patients for a hearing check as tinnitus is often linked to hearing loss.