Millions in UK Suffering from Common Condition Warned of Worsening Symptoms This Week
A prevalent health issue affecting millions in the UK may worsen in the upcoming weeks, according to a health expert. The change in temperature is cited as a factor contributing to the potential increase in severity of this condition. Tinnitus, a health condition characterised by hearing ringing or hissing sounds originating from within the body, affects around 7.6 million individuals in the UK, which accounts for approximately 13% of the population. While tinnitus is typically not a sign of a serious underlying problem and may improve on its own, the onset of colder weather can exacerbate symptoms for those impacted by this condition.
The Met Office has issued snow and ice weather warnings across various regions in the UK for today, November 22, with Storm Bert expected to cause further disruptions over the weekend. Hannah Samuels, an audiologist at Boots Hearingcare, highlights how cold weather can impact tinnitus and offers three practical tips for managing the condition during the winter months. As Google searches for “causes of ringing ears” have surged by 12% in the past week and 62% over the last month, it is evident that there is a growing concern surrounding this issue.
Hannah explains that fluctuations in temperature can influence the severity of tinnitus, with conditions like exostosis, or ‘surfer’s ear,’ which is commonly seen in individuals exposed to cold conditions, potentially exacerbating tinnitus by limiting sound transmission in the ear. Additionally, she notes that high winds can cause variations in ear pressure, leading to increased tinnitus severity, especially for individuals dealing with both tinnitus and allergies triggered by factors like dust mites during the autumn and winter months when people tend to spend more time indoors.
Atmospheric pressure fluctuations, particularly low-pressure systems that often precede storms, can also impact tinnitus by causing inner ear disturbances, resulting in heightened symptoms for those affected by the condition. To manage tinnitus during weather changes, Hannah recommends keeping ears moisturised, using background noise like white noise to mask symptoms, and protecting ears from loud noises and cold temperatures by wearing appropriate gear like earplugs or earmuffs.
For individuals struggling with tinnitus, seeking a consultation with a medical professional is advised for an accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment. To learn more about managing tinnitus or to book a free hearing test, visit www.bootshearingcare.com.
Insights & Summary:
The article highlights the significant impact of weather changes, particularly cold temperatures and atmospheric pressure fluctuations, on individuals suffering from tinnitus in the UK. With practical tips provided by an audiologist, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their symptoms during harsher weather conditions. The increasing awareness of tinnitus and the search for related information online indicate a growing concern within the population regarding this common health condition. By following expert advice and seeking appropriate medical guidance, individuals can better cope with tinnitus and minimise its impact on their daily lives, especially during adverse weather situations.