Jazzer Introduction

I've been a pro jazz trombonist since 1960, so playing regularly for 57 years.

My tinnitus started at low level in about 1995, but then after a loud gig in spring 2014, the volume came up noticeably.
My hearing at high frequencies dipped, and I now use hearing aids daily.
On the band stand I use typical (tree type) ear blocks, half in half out.

If the volume comes up too high, then stuff them right in to prevent further damage.

When "T" got intrusive I researched everything I could find. Bought several books. Tried everything I could think of.
Used Melotonin (circadin 2ml) to help me sleep longer.

I no longer use that.

My missus is a qualified hypnotherapist, did a session over me, recorded the session on my iPhone, which I now play to get me off to sleep.

If I wake at 6am and want another hour's sleep, I turn it on again and it works well.
But of course, I have 'T' all day long still.

Is Stoical Acceptance the best that we can hope for ???

 

Welcome to the forum. Acceptance is very important to begin the habituation. If instead we put up a painful resistance to T with all sorts of negative emotions, then it can delay habituation as the brain will continue to treat T as a mortal threat, which then will cause the brain to monitor T non-stop. I have a special phrase I often use to remind myself of the right attitude for this T journey. It is called "AAA” approach = Accept, Adjust & Adapt. By having this attitude to accept the reality of T and not fighting it, and by willing to make adjustment and to adapt to the new normal, we can spare much of the pain and suffering of T. It may not be easy at the start to adopt this attitude when the brain is overwhelmed. But if you stick to it, then it gets better over time, and time is on your side.

 

Hi do you hear your T only on one ear or both ears? Does it also feel like it is coming from your head? "Head noise"

 

Billie - that was very helpful advice.
Adapt to the new norm......I’m sure that is the only way. Thank you so much x

 

I keep asking if there is a safe headache painkiller to take, for this full feeling of pressure in my head?
I’ve had no replies so far?
Jazzer

 

Sorry Freeatlast - I’m pretty hopeless at navigating this site.
The acoustic trauma happened on my left side; that’s where the noise came in, as I stand to the right of the band.
Sometimes I hear ‘T’ in my left ear, but sometimes in my head.
I still play traditional jazz trombone, but use an ear block that side.
Thanks for reaching me.
I must try to understand this site a little better.
Cheers
Dave.

 

Is Stoical Acceptance the best that we can hope for ???

That's what's keeping me going.

 

Hi Ambassador
I have some fair days, and some difficult days.
I don’t think the volume varies.....just my ability to cope with it.
One audiologist said:
“Live life the best way you can.”

Maybe that is all the answer there is.....
I wish there was something more,
something better......

 

Sorry folks - I have posted a few items on here over the past couple of weeks, but am pretty hopeless at navigating this site.
I’m gradually learning roughly how it works.
(Sorry to be such a Bozo at this....you’re probably all experts.
I did introduce myself, but in the wrong place.....so I’ll introduce myself again.
I’ve been a pro jazz trombonist since 1960, so playing regularly for 57 years.

My tinnitus started at low level in about 1995, but then after a loud gig in spring 2014, the volume came up noticeably.
My hearing at high frequencies dipped, and I now use hearing aids daily.
On the band stand I use typical (tree type) ear blocks, half in half out.

If the volume comes up too high, then stuff them right in to prevent further damage.

When "T" got intrusive I researched everything I couldfind. Bought several books. Tried everything I could think of.
Used Melotonin (circadin 2ml) to help me sleep longer.

I no longer use that.

My missus is a qualified hypnotherapist, did a session over me, recorded the session on my iPhone, which I now play to get me off to sleep.

If I wake at 6am and want another hour's sleep, I turn it on again and it works well.
But of course, I have 'T' all day long still.

Is Stoical Acceptance the best that we can hope for ???