Discuss on Tinnitus Talk Forum
This episode is quite different than what we’ve done before. You’ll hear from four people with tinnitus about how the current situation, being quarantined, has affected their lives and their tinnitus. One of these people was infected with the Coronavirus and describes how it affected his entire family and impacted his tinnitus.
We also spoke with a researcher, Raj Shekhawat, about how the crisis has affected tinnitus research because of clinical trials being stalled. And we spoke with Alan Hopkirk, an audiologist who has now shifted his patient support efforts completely online.
Through this compilation episode, we are aiming to connect with all of you out there who are feeling isolated!
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Skip to: 00:31 Introductory reflections on coronavirus and tinnitus.
Skip to: 05:40 Tinnitus Talk members’ experiences with tinnitus during quarantine.
In regard to my tinnitus, it was kind of a good thing, you know, because when I’m at home and you’re working from home, you can have music playing in the background as loud as you want. – Sean
Skip to: 18:18 Tinnitus Talk member Ed209 discusses his COVID-19 infection.
After about a week it started to go back to its normal level (which is loud). – Ed
Skip to: 24:05 Raj Shekhawat (UCL) talks about impact on tinnitus research.
Skip to: 30:10 Raj Shekhawat talks about a new study on high definition tDCS.
Skip to: 33:17 Alan Hopkirk, audiologist, talks about supporting tinnitus and hyperacusis patients online.
So, now that we’re doing this [using online support services], we’re finding actually it’s very successful. – Allan Hopkirk
Skip to: 39:42 Online communities as a means of support during quarantine.
Skip to: 49:14 A few more words of advice and encouragement.
Please look after your mental health and physical health, try and get out of the house if you can, go for some walks if you can, try and reach out to people! – Raj Shekhawat
I am a sufferer of tinnitus.
What meds help with it so you can get a peaceful sleep and cope during the day?
Help please… depression, anxiety!
What helps!
I am trying Amitriptyline, only a very small dose of 5mg at night has really helped with relaxation and sleep. I don’t take it every night but it is perfectly safe to do so if required. With having a better quality of rest at night I find I cope better during the day. I have had tinnitus for over 30 years and the last 5 have been exceptionally difficult with the volume of the tinnitus and the range of noises I can no longer tolerate, but this medication has given some relief. I would recommend you speak to your GP.
Try mindfulness. Long term it’s healthy and sustainable. Best wishes.
This episode was most helpful and gave me some hope for help, treatment and even eventually a cure for my tinnitus.
I spent 30 years in the Army field artillery and suffer from noise induced hearing lose and severe tinnitus. Over the years both have become worse and my tinnitus totally disrupts my life. I even considered suicide to escape the constant loud ringing in my ears. Fortunately I saw a psychiatrist who prescribed Xanax and Viibryd which now enables me to manage my anxiety. I am so hopeful for the ongoing efforts to market actual treatment for tinnitus, like Hough Ear Institute’s. I pray this medication becomes available soon.