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  1. Michael Leigh

    Who Here Owns Cats?

    The days are brighter and the weather warmer as we enter the first days of June. Throughout the winter months, Alfie and Polly's activity has been relatively quiet. Neither of them has caught a bird or mouse in the garden and brought it through the cat flap where it would meet its untimely fate...
  2. Michael Leigh

    I am sorry to know you are going through a difficult time at the moment with your tinnitus. A...

    I am sorry to know you are going through a difficult time at the moment with your tinnitus. A lot of people that have tinnitus, believe earplugs will prevent the tinnitus from spiking when going clubbing, but this is not necessarily the case. Please go to my started threads and read: Can I...
  3. Michael Leigh

    Sudden Onset of Pulsatile Tinnitus with Neck Pain and TMJ History

    You are welcome @Gwen1234. I think you will find the information in my articles helpful. Best of luck, Michael
  4. Michael Leigh

    Sudden Onset of Pulsatile Tinnitus with Neck Pain and TMJ History

    Many things can cause tinnitus, including neck pain and the TMJ you have mentioned. You may indeed have Pulsatile tinnitus. However, if you have been listening to audio regularly through any type of headphones, even at low volume, then you might have noise-induced tinnitus. If you have attended...
  5. Michael Leigh

    The Sound of an Airbag Deploying Is 160 dB. What Can One Do?

    If you took the time to read all of my post instead of quoting just a small section of it, then you might not have such a flippant attitude to TRT and CBT. When these treatments are administered correctly, and the patient is willing to work with the therapist, they can help a person affected by...
  6. Michael Leigh

    How to Habituate to Tinnitus

    You are welcome Mary. It is a lot to read. I suggest that you print the articles, and then take your time to read them. All the best, Michael
  7. Michael Leigh

    How to Habituate to Tinnitus

    Hi Mary, I also use Oticon hearing aids with 3 sounds built in: Pink noise, white noise, and ocean waves. I do not have any hearing loss, so my audiologist disabled the hearing aids via computer when I was fitted with the hearing aids. They operate purely as wearable sound generators. Please...
  8. Michael Leigh

    How to Habituate to Tinnitus

    Hi Mary, You are unlikely to become addicted to Clonazepam if you are properly managed by your GP/PCP on how much you take. My ENT consultant prescribed me Clonazepam in 2010. I was advised to take it only when the tinnitus was severe. I would take 2X 0.5 mg tablets, once or twice a month for...
  9. Michael Leigh

    How to Habituate to Tinnitus

    Hi @cicou. I am sorry to hear of the difficulties that you are having with tinnitus at the moment. I advise you to print the articles listed below, which are available on my started threads. Take your time and read them. This way you will absorb and retain the information better than reading it...
  10. Michael Leigh

    I Made a Stupid Mistake by Going Into a Bar without Earplugs — Tinnitus Now Worse

    Some people who have noise-induced tinnitus believe that wearing earplugs will keep them safe when going to a bar or club where loud music is played. However, this is not necessarily true. If external sound is loud enough, it can pass through the head and reach the inner ear via bone conduction...
  11. Michael Leigh

    Have You Ever Taken Ginkgo Biloba for 6 Weeks?

    Thank you for your kind words, @Isabella 123. I wish you all the best going forward. Take care, Michael
  12. Michael Leigh

    Have You Ever Taken Ginkgo Biloba for 6 Weeks?

    Hi Isabella, Whatever brand of Ginkgo Biloba you take, it is important to follow the instructions on the bottle and not overdose yourself. “Tincture” means liquid. When Ginkgo Biloba is taken as a liquid, it usually enters the bloodstream faster than in tablet form. I take Ginkgo Biloba made by...
  13. Michael Leigh

    Recommendations for Small Speakers with Built-In Balance Adjustment for Zoom Meetings?

    Of course you don't have noise-induced tinnitus. How silly of me to suggest such a thing. Michael
  14. Michael Leigh

    Recommendations for Small Speakers with Built-In Balance Adjustment for Zoom Meetings?

    I am not into avoiding sounds either, and I agree with you that's not the way to live. I am an audiophile and regularly listen to my Hi-Fi at 50 to 70 decibels without any problems. I only use hearing protection when using my petrol lawn mower and electric drills. If you're sure the desktop...
  15. Michael Leigh

    Recommendations for Small Speakers with Built-In Balance Adjustment for Zoom Meetings?

    I am unable to recommend specific desktop speakers for you, @AfroSnowman, but I do have a few suggestions to consider. I think it would be better to purchase a pair of speakers from a store for a home trial rather than buying them online. When you visit the store, explain to the manager the...
  16. Michael Leigh

    Struggling with Tinnitus Spike from Headset Use at Work: Any Advice?

    I agree with the advice your audiologists have given you. Tinnitus and hyperacusis can improve with time and treatment. Please read my thread: Hyperacusis, as I See It. All the best, Michael
  17. Michael Leigh

    Struggling with Tinnitus Spike from Headset Use at Work: Any Advice?

    I have no experience with the supplements you have mentioned, @shasta0863. You have had noise-induced tinnitus for a long time. It is my area of interest, along with hyperacusis. This is the reason I replied to your questions: I want to try to help you. As I have previously mentioned, I advise...
  18. Michael Leigh

    Struggling with Tinnitus Spike from Headset Use at Work: Any Advice?

    Hi @Jupiterman, quite a few people have told me that hearing aids made their tinnitus worse. However, there is a correct way to use them that reduces this risk. I usually advise people to introduce hearing aids gradually, and in most cases, they do quite well. Hearing loss can make existing...
  19. Michael Leigh

    Struggling with Tinnitus Spike from Headset Use at Work: Any Advice?

    Listening to audio through headphones at what you call “normal conversation levels” does not apply to most people with noise-induced tinnitus. I have written about this many times in this forum and in articles on my threads. Please read: Can I Habituate to Variable Tinnitus? Variable tinnitus...
  20. Michael Leigh

    Struggling with Tinnitus Spike from Headset Use at Work: Any Advice?

    If you have noise-induced tinnitus, with or without hyperacusis, and you use any type of headphones, including bone-conduction headphones, even at low volume, then you risk making your tinnitus and hyperacusis worse. If the tinnitus and hyperacusis do become worse, they might not reduce to a...
  21. Michael Leigh

    Struggling with Tinnitus Spike from Headset Use at Work: Any Advice?

    No. I haven't experienced any form of hyperacusis in 27 years. I haven't had any desire to go to concerts or loud outdoor events. I have been to many parties over the years and have my noise-reducing earplugs to hand, just in case the music gets too loud. Normally, I wouldn't stay at any event...
  22. Michael Leigh

    Struggling with Tinnitus Spike from Headset Use at Work: Any Advice?

    I am sorry to hear about the difficulties you are having with your tinnitus at the moment. My advice is not to use bone-conduction headphones, as you risk making your tinnitus worse. I suspect that your tinnitus was originally noise-induced. People with this type of tinnitus risk making it...
  23. Michael Leigh

    Tinnitus Masking: Bone Conduction Headphones (e.g., Aftershokz) — Share Your Experience

    You have noise-induced tinnitus. Therefore, you are playing with fire, as you risk making your tinnitus worse if you listen to audio through any type of headphone even at low volume. Michael
  24. Michael Leigh

    Clonazepam (Klonopin, Rivotril)

    @Nick47, as you know, we are all different, which also means no two people will experience tinnitus the same. Clonazepam affects people differently. For some people, Clonazepam has no effect, while others find it helpful. Last year, in February, my tinnitus changed dramatically, and I have no...
  25. Michael Leigh

    Clonazepam (Klonopin, Rivotril)

    I live in the UK. My ENT doctor prescribed me Clonazepam in 2011. I still take it when my tinnitus is severe. If your tinnitus is severe and you are having difficulty managing it, then talk to your ENT consultant. Clonazepam shouldn't be taken too often as it will lose its effectiveness in...
  26. Michael Leigh

    Quality of Life Gone: Depressed and Suicidal

    Hi @SBlue, I am sorry to know of the difficulties that you are going through with tinnitus at the moment. This condition can be very distressing in the early stages which you are in. If you are also experiencing any oversensitivity to sound or hyperacusis, it can make your situation worse. It...
  27. Michael Leigh

    The Dangers of Microsuction

    It's not a good idea. Proving malpractice against anyone in the medical profession can be extremely difficult and costly. The only people who will benefit financially are lawyers. As soon as you run out of money, they will drop the case. Someone I knew tried to sue his dentist for making his...
  28. Michael Leigh

    Can Diazepam Cause Intermittent "Zaps"?

    Since 2010. I only take it when the tinnitus is severe. If Clonazepam is taken too often, one can build up a resilience to it. Fortunately, this hasn't happened to me. I wish you well, Michael
  29. Michael Leigh

    The Resurgence of the Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorder

    I said in my opening post to this thread that I am not a connoisseur of reel-to-reel technology, but I am someone who takes listening to music extremely seriously. To get the best out of your Hi-Fi system, it is vitally important that the whole system produces synergy. This is the reason I have...
  30. Michael Leigh

    The Resurgence of the Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorder

    On the contrary, @Stuart-T, I think you are serious about listening to music. The fact that you have a history in audio equipment and recently bought a Rega P2 turntable demonstrates this. I explained my interest in reel-to-reel tape recorders merely to answer your questions on the subject...
  31. Michael Leigh

    The Resurgence of the Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorder

    Just type reel-to-reel tape recorders on YouTube, @stuart. You can watch and listen to audiophiles talk about the benefits of reel-to-reel tape recorders. Google R2R tape recorders and read about how good they are. Revered tape recorder manufacturer Revox, has recently released their brand new...
  32. Michael Leigh

    The Resurgence of the Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorder

    If you are happy with LPs, then continue using them. You can use the forward or rewind switch on a reel-to-reel to find tracks. Most have a cueing lever that allows the tape to be heard as it passes over the playback head at high speed. Personally, I just load a spool of tape and let it play...
  33. Michael Leigh

    Will My Tinnitus Get Worse?

    I have had tinnitus for 28 years. I have counselled and corresponded with many people that have contacted me for help with their tinnitus and hyperacusis. My area of interest is noise-induced tinnitus, with or without hyperacusis. The positive feedback that I have received from people spurs me...
  34. Michael Leigh

    Tinnitus & MRI Noise: Effective Hearing Protection?

    My advice is to have the MRI scan, @SugarMagnolia. I recently had to have one because my tinnitus has changed considerably. I was also concerned about the noise of the MRI machine, but realized it was necessary to find out whether there was an underlying medical problem within my auditory system...
  35. Michael Leigh

    The Resurgence of the Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorder

    Hi Stuart, If one chooses to venture into reel-to-reel tape recorders, they need to be aware that it can be seriously addictive and expensive. However, the rewards aren't subtle. Once you hear your music replayed on reel-to-reel tape, you will gradually lose interest in hearing music played...
  36. Michael Leigh

    Tinnitus Surges to Extreme Levels Briefly Before Returning to Normal

    HI @Sparklecat, I advise you to give your ears a rest, avoid loud noise, and refrain from using any type of headphones, even at low volume. It seems likely that you have noise-induced tinnitus. This type of tinnitus usually remains stable and does not worsen for most people, provided they...
  37. Michael Leigh

    Tinnitus Made Worse by Atorvastatin and Ezetimibe — What Anti-Cholesterol Drug Can Work for Me?

    Hi @SimonP, I had raised cholesterol, so my GP advised me to take medication to help keep it under control. I took three types, including the two that you have mentioned. Unfortunately, they all increased my tinnitus. I had other unpleasant side effects with Ezetimbe and the third medication...
  38. Michael Leigh

    I Have Noise-Induced Tinnitus — What Should I Do?

    You make an interesting point @Jupiterman. I recently counseled someone with this problem. I suggested they take their time and introduce sound enrichment slowly and at the lowest level possible. One has to experiment to see what is best for them because we are all different. One thing is...
  39. Michael Leigh

    I Have Noise-Induced Tinnitus — What Should I Do?

    You can use whatever type of sound enrichment you like at night as long as it's not music. Keep the volume low so it's not drawing attention to itself. The brain and auditory system never turn off until we die. People who have intrusive tinnitus should play sound enrichment throughout the night...
  40. Michael Leigh

    Should I See an ENT? Share Your Thoughts on ENTs and Tinnitus!

    If by "successful treatment" you mean addressing tinnitus, please note that ENT doctors do not directly treat tinnitus itself. Instead, they often treat underlying medical conditions within the auditory system that may cause tinnitus. This does not mean they can "cure" tinnitus. However, if it's...
  41. Michael Leigh

    Should I See an ENT? Share Your Thoughts on ENTs and Tinnitus!

    I am sorry to hear that you are experiencing so much difficulty with ear pain, @PeteJ. ENT doctors are highly skilled physicians who treat medical conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat. I think you should see an ENT so that your ears and auditory system can be examined. Accept whatever...
  42. Michael Leigh

    Seeking Advice from Those Who Have Achieved Successful Outcomes with Tinnitus Retraining Therapy

    Hi @MiaVIL. I have had TRT twice with good results. This treatment must be administered correctly for it to work. Some people claim to have had TRT but have had nothing of the sought. The treatment can last up to two years. Regular counseling with a TRT specialist is required, and wearing white...
  43. Michael Leigh

    I Have Noise-Induced Tinnitus — What Should I Do?

    I am doing fine @Tim Moore, thank you for asking. I advise you to use a proper sound machine to enrich sound instead of your iPhone. The iPhone will not be as good as a sound machine unless it is attached to a docking station with speakers fitted or connected to an external speaker by...
  44. Michael Leigh

    Announcement Welcome to Updated Tinnitus Talk!

    You are entitled to your opinion and I am entitled to mine. Michael
  45. Michael Leigh

    Announcement Welcome to Updated Tinnitus Talk!

    Quite a startling shift from the old design which will take me a while to get used to. On the whole, I think it's an improvement, so well done. Personally, I would rather you didn't include the Tinnitus Quest banner, as I find it quite annoying. Just my opinion.
  46. Michael Leigh

    Newly Developed Tinnitus After Listening to Music at Max Volume Through Earbuds

    Hi @EmLeo, I have never taken Prednisone. I am aware that some people find it helpful while others don't. Please print the posts that I have mentioned and others that you find of interest, then place them in a folder. Refer to them often. They are a form of counseling and will help to...
  47. Michael Leigh

    Newly Developed Tinnitus After Listening to Music at Max Volume Through Earbuds

    Hi @EmLeo, Headphones are one of the most common causes of tinnitus. Please read the following posts on my started threads: New to Tinnitus, What to Do? Tinnitus, A Personal View Hyperacusis, As I See It Will My Tinnitus Get Worse? How to Habituate to Tinnitus The Habituation Process There...
  48. Michael Leigh

    Advice for (Reactive) Tinnitus and Hyperacusis? Struggling with Sleep, and Unable to Work

    Hi Matt, I’m sorry to hear that you’re going through a difficult time with tinnitus right now. Your username is familiar to me. You’ve had tinnitus since 2016 and managed to habituate for quite some time. I remember you mentioning that you listened to audio through headphones without any...
  49. Michael Leigh

    How to Habituate to Tinnitus

    Tinnitus can be mild, moderate, or severe. Some people with mild tinnitus have no idea it can reach severe levels until it happens to them. Take care, Michael
  50. Michael Leigh

    Electrical Head Buzzing Tinnitus — What Has Helped YOU?

    You will habituate in time, @KaiT81. Please follow my advice to @Furetto.
  51. Michael Leigh

    First Tinnitus Retraining Therapy Session — 3 Months Since I Got Tinnitus from Fighter Jets

    I have had TRT twice in the 28 years I’ve had tinnitus. It’s too soon for you to start TRT, CBT, or any other long-term treatment for tinnitus. I recommend waiting another 3 to 4 months before beginning TRT. Please click on the link below and read my thread: What Is TRT and When Should It Be...
  52. Michael Leigh

    Electrical Head Buzzing Tinnitus — What Has Helped YOU?

    Hi @Furetto. Thank you for your kind comments and for sharing additional information about your tinnitus. I agree that the noise trauma likely triggered a resurgence of your symptoms, and I hope that, in time, the tinnitus will subside. You are making a good choice by avoiding quiet rooms, but...
  53. Michael Leigh

    Electrical Head Buzzing Tinnitus — What Has Helped YOU?

    Hi @Furetto. I don't think what you're experiencing will significantly affect your tinnitus fading over time. As you go through the habituation process, the tinnitus should gradually recede into the background. You mentioned in a post from 2020 that this happened to you, where you were able to...
  54. Michael Leigh

    Electrical Head Buzzing Tinnitus — What Has Helped YOU?

    Tinnitus actually comes from the brain, although we also hear it through our ears.
  55. Michael Leigh

    Tinnitus Spike from Watching Sports on Big-Screen Television with Soundbar

    Hi Michael, Although your profile states that the cause of your tinnitus is unknown, there is often an underlying reason. From your post, I suspect your tinnitus may be noise-induced, which is one of the most common causes. Since you've asked for help, my advice is to lower the volume of your...
  56. Michael Leigh

    How to Habituate to Tinnitus

    You have clearly never experienced severe, debilitating tinnitus; otherwise, you wouldn’t be speaking such nonsense. Many people have taken their own lives because they couldn’t cope with the constant cacophony of noise in their heads and ears. Some of these individuals were members of Tinnitus...
  57. Michael Leigh

    How to Habituate to Tinnitus

    Don't worry about writing frequently—Tinnitus Talk is a support forum, after all. Tinnitus can be incredibly debilitating when it's severe, and it can feel almost impossible to block out the noise and carry on with daily activities to distract yourself. I understand how you're feeling right now...
  58. Michael Leigh

    Intrusive Tinnitus

    I was referring to Sound Oasis speakers. They connect to the main sound machine unit via a thin cable with a 3.5mm jack at the end, which plugs into the audio output of the sound machine. Michael
  59. Michael Leigh

    How to Habituate to Tinnitus

    Please understand that the advice I offer at Tinnitus Talk is not absolute because everyone’s experience is different. What works for one person may not work for another. However, my advice is based on 28 years of experience living with noise-induced tinnitus. I have also counseled and...