How you can protect your hearing

As part of the British Tinnitus Association's National event “Tinnitus Awareness Week” on Wednesday 5th February, staff from the Audiology department at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on tinnitus, hearing, dizziness, and balance.

Members of the public are welcome to visit the NNUH’s West In-patients reception between 2.00pm – 5.00pm when Claire Gatenby, Chief Hearing Therapist will answer any hearing related questions. Claire will be joined by Mr John Phillips, Consultant Ear Nose & Throat (ENT) surgeon, from 2.00pm – 3.00pm.

Mr John Phillips, Consultant Ear Nose & Throat (ENT) surgeon, said: “One in ten people are affected by tinnitus, and one in six people in the UK are affected by hearing and balance problems which are often poorly understood and can lead to isolation. This event is a great opportunity for people to find out more from experts about these health issues or to have general enquiries about their ears and balance answered”.

Claire Gatenby, Chief Hearing Therapist at the NNUH said: “We would particularly like to raise the profile of the importance of safeguarding hearing and protecting against tinnitus; especially for young people and information on noise damage will be available. We will also be giving away ear plugs to provide protection for gigs and night clubs”.