Many people suffer from tinnitus, ringing, high pitched whining, hissing, buzzing, roaring
sounds etc. in one or both ears. These sounds may be due to ear infections, ear wax, drugs
e.g aspirin, anti-biotics or damage caused by loud noises etc. The symptoms may be
continuous or intermittent. The sufferer can become highly distressed or even suicidal.In most cases, the cause of an individuals tinnitus may never be
identified. However, it is important that a tinnitus sufferer seeks medical attention so
as to ensure that the root cause is nothing more serious.
Lack of sleep is one of the most devastating effects a
tinnitus sufferer has to endure. Many sufferers find some comfort in the use of a 'masker',
a sound generating device that is used to mask out the tinnitus noise during the night.
These devices can be a real godsend and should be part of every tinnitus sufferers
toolkit.
The choice of sound is particularly important, it is no
good being kept awake by an alternative noise that's just a irritating as the tinnitus.
The choice is down to the individual.
The most popular background sounds tend to be white noise,
waterfalls, aircraft cabins, rain, fans or a combination of either. Noise generators can
be purchased, these are expensive and probably redundant in todays hi-tech society. A
simple recording of the sounds required can be played back on a suitable device, mp3
player, portable CD player or home hi-fi system at next to no real cost.
White noise is popular but can at first seem to be
irritating. However, it has been found that a sufferer gets used to the new sound and can
receive great comfort from its presence. For those who sleep well in aircraft or heavy
rain will find these type of background sounds most suitable. A combination of white
noise, rain and the low level hum of and aircraft cabin can be a real comfort.
This site provides low cost but high quality masking sounds
which can be downloaded and used immediately if a suitable player is available. Headphones
may be a problem for use in bed and so a small hi-fi system is recommended. Pillow
speakers are also available but in general a pair of speakers either side of the bed will
suffice.
If you have a partner in the same room and worry about
him/her getting no sleep due to your masking sounds, then don't worry, with the right
selection of masking sound, a joint decision, your partner should also be able to get a
good nights sleep.
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