Plea for more research into tinnitus

Published on Tuesday 3 November 2009 21:09

AS MANY as one in seven people will experience tinnitus at some time of their life, but not enough is being done to support patients with the condition, research claims.

Tinnitus – or ringing in the ears – is the most common injury arising from the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

About 75 per cent of 18 to 30 year-olds who go to nightclubs and concerts may also experience temporary tinnitus, according to a study in the Journal of Clinical Nursing.

But researchers say despite the distress the condition can cause, many people are left without support.

Five per cent of the UK's 4.7 million sufferers experienced severe and persistent tinnitus that affects their lifestyle.