The Sound Only You Can Hear
Imagine a constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound that never goes away. For millions of Australians, this is their daily reality. Tinnitus is one of the most common hearing-related issues, yet it’s often misunderstood.
If you live with tinnitus, you’re not alone — and while there’s no “switch it off” cure, there are proven ways to manage it and take back control.
What Exactly Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus isn’t a disease in itself. Instead, it’s a symptom — the brain’s way of reacting to changes or damage in the hearing system. People often describe it as:
- Ringing in the ears
- Buzzing or humming
- Whistling or hissing
- A roaring or rushing sound
The sound may be constant or come and go, soft or overwhelming.
Why Does Tinnitus Happen?
There are several common causes:
-
Noise exposure: Concerts, machinery, firearms, or military service.
-
Age-related hearing loss: Natural changes in the auditory system.
-
Ear health issues: Blockages, infections, or inner ear conditions.
-
Stress and fatigue: Which can make tinnitus feel more noticeable.
For veterans, tinnitus is one of the most reported service-related health conditions due to prolonged noise exposure.
How Tinnitus Affects Daily Life
It’s more than just an annoying sound. Tinnitus can:
- Disrupt sleep patterns
- Make it harder to focus at work or school
- Increase stress and anxiety
- Strain relationships with loved ones
Left unmanaged, it can impact mental wellbeing — but support is available.
Managing Tinnitus
While tinnitus can’t be “cured” in the traditional sense, many people find relief through:
- Hearing aids and sound therapy that help mask the noise.
- Lifestyle adjustments such as reducing caffeine and protecting hearing.
- Relaxation techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing.
- Professional support from audiologists and specialists.
You Don’t Have to Face It Alone
At Tinnitus Relief Australia, we’ve seen how the right support transforms lives. Our team works with both veterans and the wider community to find personalised solutions.
Take the first step today — book your free tinnitus self-check and explore how you can take back control of the ringing.