Here And Now

Tinnitus is a condition that affects millions of people across the UK, yet it’s still widely misunderstood. This Tinnitus Week 2026, The Ear Place is helping to raise awareness about what tinnitus really is, what causes it, what you can do about it, and how you can support those affected by it.

What Is Tinnitus?

While it is different for everyone who experiences it, tinnitus is ultimately characterised by the sensation of hearing a sound when there is no external source. Someone with tinnitus may hear buzzing, hissing, ringing, or other noises, either constantly or intermittently.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Some tinnitus is due to:

• Earwax blockages
• Noise-induced hearing loss (from loud music or work environments)
• Age-related hearing loss
• Ear infections or fluid
• Stress and anxiety
• Jaw or neck problems (TMJ)
• Hormonal changes

However, in many cases, there is no reason at all.

Can Tinnitus Be Cured?

There is currently no single cure for tinnitus, but there are very effective ways to manage it and reduce its impact on your life:

1. Avoid silence- Background sound (like soft music or white noise) can reduce how noticeable tinnitus feels.

2. Manage stress- Stress can make tinnitus worse. Relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and good sleep routines make a real difference.

3. Protect your hearing- Use ear protection in noisy environments and keep headphone volume at safe levels.

4. Attend a hearing assessment- Never assume tinnitus is “just something you have to live with.” 

One of the biggest myths about tinnitus is that nothing can be done. In reality, most people see real improvement with the right support.

Supporting Tinnitus UK

Tinnitus Week is led by Tinnitus UK, the national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by tinnitus. Their work focuses on:

• Funding vital research into tinnitus causes and treatments
• Providing trusted information and guidance
• Running support services for people struggling with tinnitus
• Campaigning for better awareness and care across the UK

Tinnitus UK also offers a free helpline, online resources, and community support, making them an excellent first point of contact for anyone feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to turn.

We’re proud to support the work of Tinnitus UK and encourage anyone affected by tinnitus to explore their resources alongside seeking professional ear care.

You can learn more Tinnitus.org.uk.

Help From The Ear Place

At The Ear Place, we offer hearing assessments. During your assessment we will ask questions, find out if the type of tinnitus is due to any underlying issues or requires any onward referral or investigation. We can also determine whether hearing aids might be something that can manage or help ease tinnitus.

This Tinnitus Week, we encourage anyone experiencing persistent ear noise to book a professional assessment. Early intervention leads to better outcomes, less frustration, and a better quality of life.