Raymond (not his real name) is a retired teacher who spends his free time volunteering at a medical centre. He is an active member of the Tinnitus Support Group, helping those with the condition that results in ringing or other noises in one or both ears.

He finds attending the support group to be very useful. Different talks are held each time, and the company is good; they compare notes, help one another, and have a good laugh together.

His tinnitus started a few years ago. He was certain it was a temporary thing but, when it did not go away, he became very anxious and started to listen out for it.

One night, he awoke with a noise that sounded as loud as a jet engine in his left ear, even though he could still hear his bedside clock ticking. This was a symptom of hyperacusis – the fact that his brain had focused on the tinnitus and turned up the gain control until everything became too loud.

Hyperacusis is a disorder in loudness perception. Patients who suffer from it may appear overly sensitive to a range of sounds, finding many noises unbearable and painfully loud.

According to his doctor, the common causes of tinnitus include:

• age-related process;
• previous ear injury;
• excessive and repetitive loud noises;
• glue ear or ear wax;
• poor blood circulation to the ear;
• hearing loss;
• middle ear infection;
• side effects of medication such as antibiotics, NSAIDs, diuretics, or cancer medication;
• brain lesions, like an acoustic tumour or multiple sclerosis.

He was advised to switch to camomile tea, put lavender oil on his collar so he could breathe in the calming aroma, and attend yoga classes.

Then he went to Bali to visit relatives. One of the best things about his trip was being close to nature, the sounds of which had a positive effect on his condition.

He had plenty of time to go walking and sightseeing, and wander around the bazaars bargain hunting. The overall effect of his visit was one of peace, so much so that his tinnitus did not bother him as much.

Back in Kuala Lumpur, Raymond underwent a hearing test and tinnitus therapy. Everything seemed fine… and then, for no specific reason, he became anxious and the sounds became more noticeable again.

So, he took steps to learn to be calm. He went out and about more. He met regularly with walking groups, which helped him get fitter and took his mind off stress by being in nature. He took time off to go on holidays with his friends.

The conclusion Raymond has reached is that there is seemingly a link between anxiety and tinnitus, and that relaxation can reduce and even eliminate it altogether. He advises those with the condition to try to avoid situations that cause them anxiety.

He still has tinnitus but lives well with it and never lets it stop him from doing anything, especially sleeping soundly at night. He hopes his story will inspire people to take charge of their tinnitus and live their best lives.

TELEME Healing Life Stories is a collection of inspirational stories of how ordinary people triumph over their health conditions and recover to lead a healthier life. Email [email protected] to share your story.

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