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Noise-induced hearing loss through music is prevalent, as highlighted by this recent article on famous musicians with hearing loss.

The Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme aims to support and educate musicians nationwide, safeguarding their hearing health. Founded by Musicians’ Hearing Services, in collaboration with Help Musicians UK (HMUK), the Musicians’ Union (MU), and the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM), it’s committed to making a difference in the lives of musicians everywhere.

It’s been eight years since the launch of the scheme, and so I thought now was a good time to reflect on some of the remarkable work we’ve done so far.

What we’ve achieved so far

In just eight years, the scheme has helped over 18,500 musicians across the UK, from guitarists and drummers to DJs and singers.

Here’s an insight into what the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme offers:

Comprehensive hearing assessments tailored specifically for musicians

Conducted by our expert audiologists at Harley Street Hearing and Musicians Hearing Services, these assessments are designed to detect early signs of hearing damage and provide personalised recommendations for protection and preservation.

Heavily subsidised hearing protection

The scheme is committed to ensuring that cost isn’t a barrier to safeguarding the hearing of musicians, recognising the financial restraints they may face. Through our partnership with industry-leading manufacturers, we offer top-quality earplugs and custom-made ear moulds at accessible rates, empowering musicians to protect their most precious asset: their hearing.

Education & raising awareness

Education lies at the core of our initiative. We are dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of noise-induced hearing loss and empowering musicians with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their hearing health. Workshops, seminars, and online resources serve as invaluable tools in this endeavour, equipping musicians with practical strategies for mitigating risk and promoting long-term auditory wellness.

The importance of the scheme

The dangers of excessive noise exposure have been highlighted in recent news articles where renowned musicians such as Dave Grohl have shared their battles with hearing loss and tinnitus, serving as a reminder that no musicians are exempt from poor hearing health.

Reflecting on our achievements so far, we find inspiration in the profound impact of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme. Behind the statistics, we have helped to safeguard the careers of countless numbers of musicians, preserving their passions and securing their futures. We couldn’t have done this without the unwavering dedication of our team and the support of our partners.

Thank you for your support

Our journey continues, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to championing the hearing health of musicians nationwide. Together, we can ensure that future generations of musicians continue to share their gifts with the world, unencumbered by the looming threat of hearing loss.

In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme. Your support, dedication, and advocacy are the driving forces behind our mission, and it is through our collective efforts we will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of musicians everywhere.

Matthew Allsop, Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services

Enjoy this article? You might be interested in some of our others:

• Why musicians should protect their hearing
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Have you ever wondered if having a hearing loss means you’ll suffer from dementia? And can hearing aids help to prevent it?

Today’s blog is a deep dive into a topic that’s both concerning and intriguing: the connection between hearing health and cognitive wellness. And let me start off by saying, I’m no expert in dementia, but I’m passionate about sharing evidence-based information in a way that’s easy to understand.

Alzheimer’s fake news

Recently, a patient came to my clinic after a distressing experience at a national chain in the UK. They’d been told that if they didn’t wear hearing aids, they would, in no uncertain terms, develop Alzheimer’s.

This is a claim that’s not only misleading but downright infuriating. In my opinion, hearing loss alone and the disability that people experience due to having a hearing loss is a big enough reason to warrant wearing hearing aids.

So, let’s set the record straight.

What the evidence says on hearing loss and cognitive decline

There is growing evidence in the media linking dementia and hearing loss, which is becoming harder and harder to ignore, that is, if it’s interpreted correctly. Let’s take a look at some actual evidence:

• In 2011, Dr. Frank Lin of Johns Hopkins concluded that a mild hearing loss will potentially double the risk for cognitive decline, a moderate hearing loss will triple the risk, and a severe hearing loss will quintuple your risk.
• A huge 25-year study involving almost 4,000 people with hearing loss by Dr. Hélèna Amieva and her colleagues in France concluded that there is a strong link between hearing status and the risk of disability, dementia, and depression.
• More recently, in The Lancet in 2020, it was indicated that hearing loss is the number one modifiable factor for preventing dementia for people in their mid to later life.

These figures are alarming, but it doesn’t mean hearing loss guarantees dementia.

Globally, around 55 million people suffer from some form of dementia. However, while we all lose some degree of brain processing power as we age, it’s relatively rare or unlikely that you’ll experience dementia or Alzheimer’s, with only around 2% of the population between the ages of 65 to 69 actually suffering from dementia. This figure does increase to about 33% by the age of 90.

So, while cognitive decline is a natural part of ageing, it doesn’t have to lead to dementia.

How hearing aids can help with dementia prevention

There is a lot of time, energy, and resources being poured into this subject, with evidence continuing to grow around how you can improve your chances of keeping your brain sharp throughout your entire lifetime. And guess what? Maintaining good hearing health is one of them.

HearingTracker recently recorded an interview with four experts on cognitive decline, dementia, and hearing loss. Two of the researchers, Dr. Victoria Sanchez and Dr. Julia Sarant, are currently working on some pretty groundbreaking studies revolving around how hearing aids can improve your chances of staving off the effects of cognitive decline as you get older.

The first study, ACHIEVE (Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders), found that using professionally fit hearing aids cut in half the rate of cognitive decline for the less healthy group. For both groups, hearing intervention was found to improve communication, social functioning, and to reduce loneliness, which other studies have shown are all factors that have been tied to cognitive status.

The second study, ENHANCE (Evaluation of Hearing Aids and Cognitive Effects), supports those from the ACHIEVE study and suggests that hearing aids may be able to forestall cognitive decline by as much as 3 years.

Both of these studies are ongoing, meaning that in reality, 3 years isn’t much time to study an ageing and mental health status, and there’s a lot more research to be done and questions that need to be answered.

Why you should prioritise hearing health

Moreover, hearing intervention improves communication, social functioning, and reduces loneliness—all factors tied to cognitive health. So, hearing aids aren’t just about improving hearing; they’re about preserving cognitive wellness.

However, addressing hearing loss isn’t solely the responsibility of audiologists. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in identifying hearing issues and referring patients for appropriate care. It’s a two-way street that requires collaboration and awareness.

Now, in the age of advanced technology and heightened awareness, there’s no excuse for neglecting hearing health. Modern hearing aids offer incredible benefits, from improved functionality to sleek designs. And with ongoing research and discussions, the stigma surrounding hearing loss is gradually eroding.

So, if you’ve noticed changes in your hearing or cognitive abilities, don’t wait—seek help. And remember, taking care of your hearing isn’t just about hearing better; it’s about safeguarding your cognitive wellness.

Harley Street Hearing offers professional hearing tests that can effectively diagnose hearing loss, and our clinical audiologists can devise suitable treatment solutions such as hearing aids to prevent further decline in your hearing abilities.

To learn more about the latest advancements in hearing aids, be sure to check out our video on the best hearing aids of the year.

Until next time, take care of your ears and your brain!

Does Hearing Loss Cause Dementia? The Evidence Explained…

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing and the content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinions on all things to do with hearing health and hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can view his video on hearing loss & dementia below.

Enjoy this article? You might be interested in some of our others:

• What is hearing loss?
• Hearing wellness: Protecting your ears in 2024
• Best hearing aids available in the UK for 2024

If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that our hearing shouldn’t be taken for granted. Hearing is a vital sense that can decline as we age, and hearing loss is more common than you might think.

Taking proactive measures to protect yourself against hearing loss and seeking the right treatment if it does happen to you is the best solution, but with so many hearing care specialists offering different services where do you start?

There are various types of hearing professionals, from audiologists to otolaryngologists, and each of them plays a pivotal role in diagnosing and treating hearing-related issues. Some may use the term hearing doctor to refer to this group of professionals, but it is important to understand the difference between the specialists. The professional you should see will depend on your individual issues, so we’re here to help you understand the differences between them.

Whether you need treatment for hearing loss or specialist insight into an underlying audiological disorder, here’s an in-depth guide on which hearing professional to see and when.

The different types of hearing professionals

Audiologists

While audiologists are not doctors, they are highly trained professionals specialising in assessing, diagnosing, and managing disorders related to hearing and balance. They hold advanced qualifications in audiology and are licensed to perform a wide array of diagnostic tests to evaluate hearing loss.

These tests may include audiometry, tympanometry, and speech discrimination testing to evaluate an individual’s hearing abilities. From the results, an audiologist can conclude if the patient has a hearing loss and identify the type and severity of it, and also diagnose tinnitus where this may be the issue.

Beyond hearing tests, audiologists also provide rehabilitation services such as fitting hearing aids, assistive listening devices and tinnitus treatment therapies. Advising on hearing aid selection is a critical service delivered by audiologists, as these devices must be highly tailored to each individual’s hearing requirements in order to be effective. An audiologist will recommend the most suitable hearing aid depending on the hearing loss diagnosis, program the device to suit the hearing needs of the user and provide long-term aftercare to ensure that the hearing aid continues to serve the patient’s changing needs.

Some audiologists, like ourselves at Harley Street Hearing, may also specialise in ear wax removal, auditory processing disorder treatment, paediatric hearing services and balance disorders.

When you should see an audiologist

Audiologists cater to a variety of hearing needs, so you should seek their help if you are:

• Experiencing symptoms of hearing loss such as difficulty understanding speech, struggling with background noise or hearing the TV/radio at an acceptable volume level
• Considering hearing aids or other assistive listening devices, whether this is for the first time or a device upgrade, and for hearing aid repairs or adjustments
• Experiencing symptoms of tinnitus such as continuous buzzing, whistling or ringing in your ears
• Experiencing an ear wax blockage
• Seeking a hearing assessment or evaluation for balance disorders
• Looking to maintain your hearing health with a routine check-up

The importance of seeing an audiologist for ear wax removal

Ear wax removal is a service that should only be performed by qualified doctors and certified professionals including ENT consultants and audiologists who are registered with the HCPC or RCCP/AHCS with degree-level audiological qualifications.

However, it’s becoming increasingly common for inexperienced individuals to undertake brief ear wax removal training courses and begin providing it as a service. With a lack of regulation, underqualified ear wax removal providers can pose a serious health risk so we urge you to do your research.

Seeking a fully qualified clinical audiologist to perform ear wax removal is crucial to ensuring that it’s performed with the right equipment and in a completely safe way.

Harley Street Hearing offers both microsuction and ear irrigation wax removal methods, carried out with precision and accuracy using industry best practices.

Hearing aid dispensers

Hearing aid dispensers, or hearing instrument specialists, are professionals who are trained to conduct basic hearing tests and fit hearing aids. They typically work under the supervision of an audiologist or otolaryngologist and focus primarily on selecting and adjusting hearing aids to meet individual needs.

When you should see a hearing aid dispenser:

A hearing aid dispenser may be able to help if you are:

• Seeking assistance with selecting and fitting a hearing aid
• Requiring adjustments or maintenance for existing hearing aids

Otolaryngologists (ENTs)

Otolaryngologists are commonly known as ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors/consultants as they are specifically trained in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck.

They have extensive knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system and can treat a broad range of conditions including balance disorders and ear infections. They can perform complex head and neck surgeries and prescribe medications.

When you should see an Otolaryngologist

You should contact an Otolaryngologist if you:

• Have dizziness, vertigo or balance problems
• Have hearing loss that comes on suddenly
• Have chronic ear infections
• Require a cochlear implant for profound hearing loss
• Require surgical interventions for complex ear-related problems

ENTs often work with audiologists, and an audiologist may refer you to an ENT specialist if you are seeking rehabilitation for a balance disorder. Harley Street Hearing supports the ENT clinics at the HCA hospitals and Phoenix Hospital Group to provide our patients with the best care possible.

If you are experiencing any of the above problems, our specialised clinicians can provide comprehensive audiovestibular diagnostic services and refer you to an ENT specialist if required.

Otologists

Otologists are sub-specialists within the field of otolaryngology who focus specifically on disorders of the ear.

They undergo additional training to become experts in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the ear, including hearing loss, ear infections, and tumours of the ear and skull base.

When you should see an otologist

Seek the help of an otologist if you:

• Are dealing with complex or chronic ear-related conditions
• Require specialised surgical interventions for ear conditions

Neurologists

Neurologists specialise in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, specifically those affecting hearing and balance.

Whilst they don’t directly treat hearing loss, they can play a significant role in diagnosing underlying neurological conditions that can impact auditory function, such as multiple sclerosis or acoustic neuromas.

When you should see a neurologist

You should visit a neurologist if any of the following apply to you:

• Experiencing hearing loss along with neurological symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or numbness
• Suspecting underlying neurological conditions affecting hearing or balance

Finding a hearing doctor near you

When seeking help for any hearing issues you may be experiencing, it’s important to do your research and find a qualified, reputable specialist. Whether it’s an audiologist for routine hearing assessments or a neurologist to diagnose a neurological condition, enlisting the help of a trusted clinician will ensure you receive the highest standard of care.

Harley Street Hearing is a London-based independent hearing clinic and has been serving the hearing needs of the community for over 25 years. Our highly trained clinical audiologists offer professional, thorough hearing tests to effectively diagnose hearing loss and advise on suitable treatments.

We can also provide support for tinnitus management, balance disorders, auditory processing disorder and ear wax removal.

As an independent hearing clinic, we can offer hearing aids from all of the leading UK manufacturers with completely unbiased advice on the most appropriate device for you.

We have hearing clinics across London and a team of specialists here to help address your hearing concerns and support you on your journey to better hearing. Click here to call us or fill in the contact form below and we will get back to you.

Measure your tinnitus

You may be surprised to learn that hearing aids are one of the best, if not the best, forms of treatment for tinnitus. Yet, most of you out there suffering from tinnitus today won’t have even considered them as being a solution for you.

I’m going to show you the different styles of tinnitus hearing aids, explain how they’ll help you and whether or not you’re suitable for them.

See the video below for measuring your own tinnitus with a frequency sweep.

Hearing aids and tinnitus

So, how can hearing aids help, and are they the best possible treatment for you?

Now, I say treatment because, sadly, there is no known cure for tinnitus. However, there are plenty of proven ways to make it less intrusive and transform it from being at the forefront of your mind all the time and something that you struggle to escape from, to being something that’s just there in the back of your mind but has no negative impact on your life on a daily basis.

Hearing aids help to reduce tinnitus in two main ways:

1. If you have a hearing loss, the hearing aid should be programmed to that loss and, therefore, fill the void of sound that’s not being sent from your ear to your brain. This filling in of missing sound will mask your tinnitus, and works for around 60 to 70% of the patients we see at Harley Street Hearing with tinnitus and hearing loss combined.
2. Hearing aids can be used for sound enrichment therapy or masking, and this is where each hearing aid manufacturer has their own types of sound enrichment to mask your tinnitus. These sounds can range from different types of noises to nature sounds.

What each hearing aid manufacturer offers

Widex Moment tinnitus hearing aids

Widex has historically been a strong forerunner as the best hearing aid for tinnitus for years now, and this all started when they introduced their Zen sounds back in 2012, and have recently continued to add to their tinnitus features with the introduction of a feature called SoundRelax.

The Widex Moment hearing aid is available in a range of different styles. The style of hearing aid that you’re comfortable wearing is a very personal thing, and some patients prefer a behind-the-ear model, while others prefer an in-the-ear hearing aid.

You must remember that the suitability of a hearing aid is also determined by your hearing test results, so your audiologist should recommend the most appropriate style for you, based on three factors:

• Your preference
• Your hearing test
• Your lifestyle

The different hearing aid styles can give you access to different features. Widex’s tinnitus features are available across all of their technology levels, from their 440s, 330s, 220s, and 110s, with the 440s being the most advanced of all of their technology.

Now, while you can choose from a white noise sound, which is similar to other hearing aid manufacturers, Widex is mainly known for its Zen and SoundRelax sounds, which all need to be activated by your audiologist.

The Zen therapy concept is unique to Widex and involves using fractal tones, which are random, harmonic, and melodic tones that sound a little bit like wind chimes. As they’re unpredictable, your brain doesn’t associate the sound with any other conventional music or sounds to which you may have been exposed. In itself, this encourages overcoming the negative effects caused by your tinnitus.

Widex recently introduced their newest SoundRelax sounds, which Widex claims will help you regain your inner peace with a great new world of relaxing sounds. Not only is Widex’s SoundRelax designed to help all hearing aid wearers, both with and without tinnitus, but Widex states that they will also help you deal with anxiety, they’ll soothe your mind and also boost your concentration levels.

Oticon Real tinnitus hearing aids

Oticon calls their tinnitus feature Tinnitus Sound Support. Oticon’s latest hearing aid to feature these tinnitus features is available in a range of different styles, full details are in the video below.

Oticon’s Tinnitus Sound Support features are available across their different technology levels, so from level one, two, and three, again, with the former being the most advanced of their tech. To activate your tinnitus settings, you’ll need to work with your audiologist to ensure the correct settings for you.

Phonak Lumity tinnitus hearing aids

Phonak approaches its tinnitus treatment in a very similar way to Oticon, with fewer options but a little bit more flexibility. They call their tinnitus feature Tinnitus Balance, and it’s available across Phonak’s family of up-to-date hearing aids, which is incredibly vast, with a few exceptions. (see the video for full details)

As with all other manufacturers, the tinnitus feature needs to be enabled by your audiologist on Phonak’s Target hearing aid fitting software. Yet, differently from all other manufacturers, Phonak focuses on providing you with broadband sounds, rather than nature sounds that we saw with the likes of Oticon.

In my opinion, their selection of three is a little bit disappointing. However, as I mentioned before, there’s a lot of tailoring that can be done to those sounds. Clicking on the tinnitus section in the Target software, you can see that the first option is to set their masking sound to hearing loss, which is similar to the shaped tinnitus feature from Oticon, matching your specific hearing loss.

We do tend to find that patients prefer this option to the others. We then have the white noise, and then finally, pink noise. While the hearing aid software will estimate the most appropriate intensity of masking for your hearing loss, it’s possible to increase or decrease it further still.
Taking this one step further, Phonak also allows further customisation of the frequency response using the graphic equalizer to add more or less bass, mids, or treble according to your needs.

Starkey Genesis AI tinnitus hearing aids

Starkey’s tinnitus program is called Multiflex and is available in all of their newest Genesis AI family of hearing aids. Starkey has a huge selection of styles to choose from, plus it’s built into all technology levels.

Again, the settings need to be activated by your audiologist in the Starkey Profit fitting software, and you have the choice of three different types of masking to choose from: audiogram-shaped, white noise, or customised, which allows the shaping of the Multiflex tinnitus stimulus for a personalised signal with an even greater degree of precision.

Signia IX tinnitus hearing aids

Signia’s tinnitus therapy features are available in all styles, although you do have to take a step back in technology for you to be able to access some of them. For example, it’s available in their Pure Charge&Go IX, their Pure Charge&Go T IX, and their Silk X, which are their most up-to-date family of hearing aids, plus their Motion BTE hearing aids, and the Insio NX IIC, CIC, and ITE, which are older technologies.

Again, Signia’s tinnitus therapy is available in all styles and all technology levels and needs to be programmed via their Connexx hearing aid fitting software. They offer three different strategies against tinnitus, depending on which is the most appropriate for you: static noise therapy, ocean wave therapy, and then Signia’s unique tinnitus Notch therapy.

The static noise tinnitus therapy signals include five preset noise signals, plus the ability to personalise the sound to meet your specific needs. With Signia, you can choose from white noise, pink noise, speech noise, high tone noise, or Brownian noise.

Secondly, Signia has four different ocean wave therapy signals, which are designed to mimic the sound of the sea, including Boulder Beach, Rocky Beach, Pebble Beach, and Paradise Beach. Most of our tinnitus patients do tend to find them very relaxing and also less annoying than some of the standard white noise sounds that are out there.

Finally, and uniquely to Signia, you can access their tinnitus Notch therapy. I found that this method of tinnitus therapy can be pretty effective, depending on the individual. The TNT technique is designed for those experiencing a tonal, such as a ringing, whistling, or buzzing, and it’s different to using any of Signia’s masking sounds, as the concept behind TNT therapy isn’t to drown out the sound with other sound but actually to teach your brain how to ignore it completely.

Signia says that the frequency of your tinnitus is targeted, and amplification of the sound is turned down and relegated to background noise, making it easier for your brain to ignore your tinnitus.

In theory, this means that you don’t waste your energy on your tinnitus, and your stress level should be reduced, as you’re not actively trying to shut it out. Unlike ocean wave and static noise sound therapies, this method is done completely inaudibly, so you might not even realise that you’re going through sound therapy when you’re experiencing it.

The setup process for tinnitus Notch therapy is unique to Signia and, similarly to the tinnitus match and mask diagnostic tool, this process allows your audiologist to identify the specific frequency of your tinnitus. The process works by presenting two different signals, of which you have to choose the closest match to your tinnitus, with the process being repeated until the tone of your tinnitus is matched, which is then the basis of Signia’s tinnitus Notch therapy.

Resound Nexia tinnitus hearing aids

ReSound’s tinnitus sound generator is without question one of the most versatile out there, putting you, the hearing aid user, in the driver’s seat when it comes to adjusting the settings on your hearing aids. The tinnitus features are available for all technology levels and need to be activated through ReSound’s SmartFit hearing aid fitting software.

ReSound has two categories of tinnitus masking sounds. Firstly broadband sounds, with four different types of noise to choose from. This includes high-frequency noise, white noise, speech noise, and pink noise.

The second type of sound enrichment has their selection of nature sounds, which are again, different types of ocean waves, similar to that of Oticon and Signia. Now, there are six in total, ranging from breaking waves, water creeks, calming waves, beach surf, ocean, and then finally, shoreline.

The very first place that you should start looking into overcoming your tinnitus is by getting your hearing tested. So, get yourself booked in with an audiologist who knows about tinnitus and also specifically optimising hearing aids related to tinnitus, which is, in fact, quite specialist. So, make sure you do your research first.

Hearing aids alone can be a huge help in terms of treating your tinnitus, and employing tinnitus retraining therapy can increase the chances of helping you overcome your tinnitus even further.

The best thing for you to do is to work closely with your audiologist to identify which masking sound is the most effective for you. However, if you don’t think that you’re ready for hearing aids just yet, then you might want to look at this pretty mind-blowing alternative tinnitus treatment.

Comparing the best hearing aids for tinnitus in 2024

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing, and a content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinion on all new hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can view his video where he shares his opinions on the best hearing aids for tinnitus in 2024 below.

Enjoy this article? You might be interested in some of our others:

• Phonak NEW Lumity hearing aids
• Hearing Wellness: Protecting your ears in 2024
• Best hearing aids available in the UK for 2024

Tinnitus is defined as the perception of sound without an external source. This means that you can hear sounds inside your head that are created by your internal hearing system, but nobody else around you can hear them.

It can manifest itself as a ringing, buzzing, hissing or something similar and may either occur in occasional bouts or have a constant, persistent presence.

Tinnitus is a condition which affects around 13% of adults in the UK (7.1 million people) yet it’s often a highly misunderstood condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.

In support of Tinnitus Awareness Week 2024 (5th-10th February), we wanted to share some helpful information regarding tinnitus, exploring its causes, symptoms, and treatment options in the hopes that it can help others understand and manage the condition.

Understanding tinnitus

Tinnitus isn’t a condition in and of itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition affecting the auditory system. The auditory system is a complex network responsible for processing sound signals, comprising the outer ear, middle ear, inner ear, auditory nerve, and the auditory centres in the brain.

Our perception of sound relies on how well our auditory system is functioning. Any disruption or damage to these components can lead to the perception of sound that isn’t externally present i.e. tinnitus.

Whilst many of us may be familiar with ringing in our ears for a short period following exposure to loud noise i.e. after attending a concert (acute tinnitus), for others this is their daily reality (chronic tinnitus).

Mechanisms of tinnitus

Understanding the mechanisms behind tinnitus involves considering the intricate processes that occur within the auditory system, and how they can cause the symptoms to manifest.

1. Inner ear: The inner ear contains hair cells responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals sent to the brain. If these hair cells are damaged through repeated exposure to loud noise or during the ageing process, this can contribute to the development of tinnitus.
2. Neurological changes: Tinnitus isn’t just a result of physical damage, it also involves changes in the way the brain interprets sound signals. When the hair cells are damaged, the auditory nerves send signals to the brain. In response, the brain may change how it perceives these signals and amplify certain signals which can create the perception of sound, even when there is none.
3. Central auditory processing issues: Problems in the central auditory processing system can interfere with the brain’s ability to interpret and make sense of auditory signals received from the ears. The brain may begin to process sound signals differently than it would in a non-tinnitus scenario, giving more attention to the sounds associated with tinnitus and therefore making them more prevalent.

Types of tinnitus

Tinnitus can be broadly classified into two main categories: subjective and pulsatile.

Subjective tinnitus

This is the most common type of tinnitus, accounting for the majority of cases. It’s a perception of sound that only the individual experiencing it can hear, and the nature of the sound can vary from ringing and buzzing to more complex sounds like music or noises.

Pulsatile tinnitus

This is less common and usually presents itself as a rhythmical noise, often following the same rate that the heart beats. Unlike subjective tinnitus, this may also be heard by others such as a medical professional if they were to examine the individual.

Where subjective tinnitus can be caused by various factors which we’ll discuss below, pulsatile tinnitus is typically caused by changes in blood flow vessels near the ear or by a change in awareness of the blood flow.

Anyone experiencing pulsatile tinnitus should seek advice from an ENT specialist. Harley Street Hearing can refer you to a specialist in this field, get in touch with us to find out more.

Risk factors for tinnitus

There is no single cause of tinnitus, and anyone is at risk of developing it regardless of age or gender. In the same way that symptoms and severity vary from person to person, so do the causes.

However, it can typically be attributed as a symptom of other underlying medical conditions or a problem within the audiological system.

Common risk factors for tinnitus include:

• Hearing loss – Tinnitus is more common in people with hearing loss, and many people who suffer from tinnitus also experience hearing loss. Due to the damage to the auditory system present in those with a hearing impairment, the brain has to adapt to how it processes sounds and often ‘fills in the gaps’ with tinnitus.
• Loud noise exposure – Similarly, those working in noisy environments such as construction sites or music venues without wearing hearing protection are at a higher risk of developing tinnitus due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds which can damage the ear over time.
• Ear wax blockage – An accumulation of ear wax can impede the conduction of sound waves leading to irritation and potential tinnitus symptoms. This can often be resolved with ear wax removal.
• Ménière’s disease – This is an inner ear disorder which, if pre-existing, can cause excessive fluid build-up that may lead to tinnitus and hearing loss.
• Certain medications – Oxotoxic drugs, such as some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and high doses of aspirin can harm the auditory system and contribute to tinnitus.

The impact of tinnitus on quality of life

Chronic tinnitus can have a profound effect on an individual’s quality of life. We see it firsthand with our tinnitus patients here at Harley Street Hearing, and whilst symptoms can vary from person to person it’s clear that its impacts extend far beyond the auditory system.

Tinnitus can influence various aspects of an individual’s life, such as:

Interference with sleep cycles

The constant or intermittent nature of tinnitus can be incredibly disruptive to sleeping patterns, making it difficult to get a good night’s rest. A person may have difficulty falling or staying asleep, which can in turn lead to fatigue and increased stress levels.

Cognitive performance

Persistent tinnitus can be a huge distraction and make it challenging to concentrate on tasks, therefore affecting work performance and overall productivity.

Emotional well-being

Tinnitus can have a huge emotional toll on an individual due to the daily battle against their symptoms. This can lead to feelings of heightened anxiety and in some cases, depression.

Ability to socialise

Those with severe tinnitus may find it challenging to engage in social activities, due to their inability to participate or concentrate. This can lead to strained relationships with family and friends, and eventual social isolation.

Treating tinnitus

Whilst there is no cure for tinnitus, there are many effective methods that can help to alleviate the symptoms and make the condition more manageable.

Harley Street Hearing offers the following treatment for tinnitus:

• Tinnitus sound therapy – Using specialised techniques and sound therapy machines, this method can help to relieve tinnitus symptoms by reducing an individual’s awareness of internal sounds. This can be effective in even the most severe tinnitus cases.
• Tinearity G1 – This is a revolutionary sound generator which utilises white noise to transmit sounds directly into the inner ear via the skull instead of through the ears.
• Hearing aids – If you are found to have hearing-loss-induced tinnitus, hearing aids may be an effective treatment to provide relief. We can offer an extensive range of industry-leading devices, tailored to your individual needs.
• Hearing protection – To avoid further damage to your hearing where exposure to loud noises is unavoidable, we can provide custom-fitted hearing protection.

Before undergoing any type of tinnitus treatment, it’s important to first get an accurate diagnosis from a clinical audiologist. This will help to get an understanding of the root cause of your tinnitus, and therefore inform the most appropriate treatment method.

Harley Street Hearing are a highly skilled team of clinical audiologists in London, specialising in providing personalised tinnitus therapy and support. We understand how debilitating it can be and will devise a treatment solution tailored to your needs.

If you or someone you love is experiencing tinnitus, find your nearest clinic or get in touch with us to book a consultation.

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For many of us, self-care has become an essential component of our daily routine. In 2024, more people than ever are looking to incorporate habits that improve their physical health, mental well-being and emotional balance. However, one component that’s often overlooked is hearing wellness.

Our hearing health has an astronomical impact on many other areas of our lives that extend far beyond the quality of the sound we hear. It can impact our mood, social activities, sensory processes and brain activity. That’s why it’s crucial to incorporate practices that protect and maintain this vital sense.

We already know that not enough people are getting their hearing checked which raises concerns that many also aren’t taking appropriate action to care for their ears in day-to-day life.

Let’s take a look into the significance of hearing wellness as a self-care act and what you should incorporate into your regime.

Self-care to prevent hearing loss

Self-care is more than just a trend that’s emerged over recent years, it’s an important part of making healthier lifestyle choices. From exercise and nutrition to reading and learning a new skill, there are many different ways to look after your mind and body – but what about ear care?

In 2015 The World Health Organisation (WHO) published a report which forecasted that 1.1 billion people are at risk of experiencing permanent, avoidable hearing damage in their lifetime.

Keeping your ears healthy is crucial when it comes to preventing hearing loss. Our ears and our hearing are precious, they help us to stay in touch with friends and family, enjoy music, warn us of danger and allow us to participate in life. The onset of hearing loss can have a detrimental effect on all of the above and more, ultimately reducing an individual’s quality of life.

The importance of regular hearing tests can’t be underestimated as a way to accurately diagnose and treat hearing loss before it gets worse. However, there are additional proactive steps we can take to protect and enhance our hearing and it all comes down to protecting our ears when they need it the most.

The rising trend of ear protection

We’re living in an era of constant connectivity and audio overload which can damage our ears over time. Whether it’s a concert, a sports game or a social gathering, exposure to loud noises is a common occurrence in our modern lives.

Unfortunately, repeated exposure to high decibel levels can lead to the development of tinnitus and irreversible hearing damage. To combat this, we can use ear protection.

In the same way that hearing aids have transformed over recent years and the stigmas around wearing them are fading out, hearing protection is now considered a necessary accessory for all ages when attending loud events.

For musicians, hearing protection has always been a non-negotiable to prevent hearing loss, and this should be no different for those watching in the crowd. Regardless of how often you attend live performances, the level of noise produced can be incredibly damaging to your ears. Even just one very loud concert could cause permanent damage.

The best and most effective way to protect your hearing whilst still hearing the music is to invest in custom-made hearing protection.

Custom-made hearing protection for events

Modern custom-made hearing protection allows you to discreetly protect your hearing, while not compromising the sound quality. You can even hear clearly enough to have a normal conversation when you are wearing them whilst listening to the music around you.

Designed to fit the shape and size of your ears, custom-made ear plugs are superior to off-the-shelf versions as they offer suitable protection with filters. The moulds are made of soft durable silicon and are tailored to your own unique ear shape, giving the ultimate fit for ear comfort and noise isolation. What’s more, with Musicians’ Pro Ear Plugs you can either have them as clear or choose from a variety of colours from opaque black to neon pink.

Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services offers a range of custom-fit hearing protection for various requirements and activities including sleeping, swimming, shooting and custom earphones. We can provide you with safe and comfortable earplugs to protect your ears from damaging loud noises and reduce your chances of hearing loss. To find out more, contact us.

More ways to protect your hearing

Aside from wearing hearing protection, what else can we do to protect our ears from damage?

1. Keep the volume down

If you find yourself often wearing headphones or listening to loud TV shows, it’s important to be aware of your volume control. Turning the volume down is a great way to limit the damage to your hearing from noise exposure.

To help reduce the incidence of avoidable hearing loss, Make Listening Safe Campaign UK have released their first petition to the government to manage noise exposure from headphones. Click here to learn more and sign the petition.

2. Stand back

Along with wearing hearing protection, try to distance yourself from the source of loud noise at any event as much as you possibly can. Standing further away from the speakers or at the back of the crowd will protect you from too loud noise exposure.

3. Take regular breaks

If you have to be in noise for long periods, for example at work, take regular breaks to ensure that you allow your hearing time to recover.

4. Get your hearing tested

Whether or not you are concerned about your hearing, you should commit to undergoing regular hearing tests to diagnose any potential issues. It is better to know if there is a problem, and with modern technology, there is almost always something to help you.

Research shows that if you have a hearing problem, it is better to get started with hearing devices early rather than waiting until you can’t manage any more. It also shows that most people wait up to ten years before they seek professional advice, preferring to “soldier on” rather than do something about it.

Recent research, however, shows that if we ignore a hearing problem the hearing mechanism suffers from lack of stimulation, rather like an underused muscle that wastes away. Keeping your ears stimulated with sound helps to maintain a healthy auditory (hearing) pathway to the brain and helps you understand speech as clearly as possible.

If you are experiencing any issues with your hearing, such as problems communicating in background noise or needing to turn up the volume on the TV, come and see us. Our audiologists will perform accurate but easy tests, which will identify any problems quickly. Then, if your hearing is not as it should be, we will explain the results and provide clear, independent advice about the options available to get you back on track and participating fully in life.

5. Let your ears look after themselves

The ears have a natural cleansing mechanism to ensure that cerumen (or wax) does not build up. Earwax is a good thing, as it helps to keep the ear canals healthy and prevents debris from reaching the eardrum. Never be tempted to put anything into the ear, not even cotton buds. The skin in the ear canal is very thin and sensitive and is easily grazed, so putting cotton buds into the ear simply pushes any wax closer to the eardrum and can also result in infections.

If you would like your ears checked or you think you may need to have wax removed, make an appointment to see one of our highly qualified audiologists. They will provide advice on ear care and can remove wax and other obstructions safely – don’t worry it doesn’t hurt a bit!

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So, you’ve decided to think about hearing aids

Firstly, welcome! My name’s Matt Frost and I’m one of the audiologists at Harley Street Hearing.

Considering hearing aids is not an easy transition – whether it’s something you’ve noticed yourself or is something that has been suggested to you by someone else – so I am proud of you for finding your way here. I hope you find these reflections on my journey with hearing aids as a helpful checkpoint and I encourage you to keep going in your explorations, because hearing aids could change your life.

Almost every patient I see has had an event or experience that has led them to consider hearing aids. Maybe it’s difficulty hearing your friends whilst out for dinner, or that a family member has been pleading with you to have your hearing tested, maybe it’s struggling with softly spoken colleagues at work. Everyone has their own unique story and I wonder what that journey has been like for you so far.

My own hearing loss story

When I was first diagnosed with hearing loss at 17 years old and prescribed hearing aids, I was in the throes of training to become a professional orchestral percussionist.

Initially, I was shocked, terrified of what others might think, and in denial about whether they would truly help. With great courage and support from my audiologist, I committed to trying them. I have never looked back. I went on to train at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama in London, before turning my passion for musicians’ wellbeing into a desire to care for others with hearing loss and a love of music.

It’s important to acknowledge that everyone reading this article will have a different experience of hearing the world; your lifestyle and listening needs are totally unique to you. That’s why a tailored, individualised approach to hearing health care is crucial to you achieving your listening goals. That’s what Harley Street Hearing provides. Now, the aim of my reflections here are not to homogenise the experiences of us as hearing-impaired people: every individual has their unique insights to offer. Rather, I wish to share with you a couple of thoughts that I now find helpful as a clinician when discussing hearing aids with my patients and what you might expect from a hearing aid assessment at Harley Street Hearing.

Thought 1: IDA’s ‘The Box’

The *IDA Institute’s Box is a fantastic tool to use if you are at all on the fence about trialling hearing aids and can easily be done at home. It asks you to weigh out the advantages and disadvantages of taking action on your hearing and gives you a chance to reflect on any listening difficulties that you might have experienced recently. (Click on the image below to download The Box and complete).

One common reflection I hear from patients is the phrase, “I think I cope fine”. I like to draw back to my own experiences with hearing aids in answering this. Imagine you’re watching a football match on a black and white television. You can see the players moving, but it’s difficult to know who is on which team and which players you’re supposed to be cheering for. Now, you switch over to your LED colour display television, the players come to life and your brain no longer needs to strain to identify which players are on which team. This is how I describe my current hearing experience. Without hearing aids, I can cope. I can survive. However, I have to try infinitely harder to stay engaged, sometimes making up my responses as I go along, or simply being isolated from conversation entirely. With my hearing aids in, the world returns to colour and my aural fatigue reduces. The mental strain from having to work so hard to listen well to others, lessens.

Put simply, you do not have to settle for ‘coping’, instead hearing aids can bring brightness back to your auditory world and help you to thrive.

Thought 2: What are my options?

When you hear, “hearing aids”, what does your brain jump to first? I know – it was either those big chunky things your great grandparents wore, or Beethoven’s ear trumpet, right? Let me reassure you, as cool as the ear trumpet was, a sleek world of possibility is at your fingertips with the hearing aids of today.

Here’s my breakdown of the things that are helpful to know, to get you started:

• Style – there are three main styles: discrete behind-the-ear, custom made, and completely invisible, available in a variety of colours to match your skin, hair or personal preference. During your hearing aid assessment at Harley Street Hearing, your audiologist will detail the benefits of going with one style over another, not only taking into account your medical history and hearing test results, but also your personal preferences and lifestyle needs.
• Connectivity – many devices on the market in both the behind-the-ear and custom made styles have the capacity to connect to your phone. This means that you can stream music, phone calls and podcasts to your ears directly, with the hearing aid taking into account your hearing difference, to help you hear those sounds more clearly.
• Apps – Most hearing aids also have their own apps to go with them. This gives you the control to make some adjustments to your hearing aids where necessary. Whether that’s microphone adjustments, programme changes, or background noise reduction – you can be in the driving seat.

Thought 3: This is the beginning of a journey

Some patients tend to think that hearing aids are like glasses – you put them on and, “wahey!” you can see. When it comes to hearing aids, we need to allow time for the brain to become accustomed to the new auditory information it receives. This is different for every individual, again highlighting the importance of the tailored service and care that Harley Street Hearing provides.

At Harley Street Hearing your assessment would be followed by a demonstration appointment, leading to the most important appointments of all – your follow ups. This is when you get to give your audiologist feedback from your experiences in the real world, the world according to you. Your feedback then guides the fine-tuning of your hearing aids to ensure that you are getting the most out of your new devices.

When I was first given hearing aids I was anxious of them and how others would see me. Now, I see how they have allowed me to flourish, both in the pursuits of my musical career, and the clinical one that has followed. I can only hope that you feel encouraged to do the same.

*The Ida Institute is an independent, non-profit organisation working to build a global community that embraces person-centred hearing care.

If you’re interested in seeing how Harley Street Hearing can help you with any hearing issues please call us on 020 7486 1053 or contact us completing the contact form below.

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Untreated hearing loss can have a profound impact on cognitive function, and recent studies have shown an alarming correlation between hearing impairment and an increasing risk of dementia.

We’ve previously explored the connection between hearing loss and dementia, explaining how even a mild hearing loss can double the risk of developing dementia. However, we also touched on the potential pivotal role that hearing aids could play in reducing the risk of dementia.

Ahead of the upcoming Dementia Awareness Day (21st January), we wanted to dive deeper into the topic and look into the science behind this relationship, and the cognitive benefits of wearing hearing aids.

Can hearing aids delay dementia?

Researchers are continually uncovering evidence that places hearing loss as a high risk factor for developing dementia, confirmed through various studies. In recent years, they’ve also discovered that the likelihood of developing dementia is lower for those who wear hearing aids.

What the studies say

Study 1

The PROTECT Study, conducted by the University of Exeter and King’s College in London in 2019, was carried out on 25,000 participants aged 50 or over.

The participants were separated into two groups and undertook annual cognitive tests over the course of two years. The results showed that the group who were wearing hearing aids performed better in measures assessing working memory and aspects of attention, compared to those who weren’t wearing hearing aids. The group wearing hearing aids showed faster reaction times which reflected their ability to concentrate better.

PROTECT lead Dr Anne Corbett, from the University of Exeter, said: “Previous research has shown that hearing loss is linked to a loss of brain function, memory and an increased risk of dementia. Our work is one of the largest studies to look at the impact of wearing a hearing aid, and suggests that wearing a hearing aid could actually protect the brain. We now need more research and a clinical trial to test this and perhaps feed into policy to help keep people healthy in later life.”

Study 2

A 2021 study was carried out on 2,114 patients over the age of 50 with a hearing impairment. They found a third who wore hearing aids had not developed dementia five years after their mild cognitive impairment (MCI*) diagnosis.

This figure was only a fifth for those who did not wear hearing aids.

The experts said their findings were an ‘important first step’ to encourage those with hearing loss and at risk of dementia, to wear hearing aids.

Interestingly, the use of hearing aids was linked with a two-year slower conversion to dementia which would have substantial economic and societal effects.

Research shows that the onset of dementia in people with hearing loss could be delayed by up to 5 years if hearing aids are worn.

* MCI affects 5–20% of people over the age of 65. It manifests as problems with memory and thinking that do not interfere significantly with daily life. Individuals diagnosed with MCI are more likely to go on to develop dementia later in life.

The conclusion

Of course, there are more studies on the relationship between hearing aids and dementia than the two mentioned above, and likely many more ongoing. However, what we can clearly see is that hearing aids can have a drastic impact on an individual’s likelihood of developing dementia.

Dr Leah Mursaleen, Head of Clinical Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “Although the effects of using hearing aids are notoriously difficult to unravel, because researchers cannot be sure if people use them consistently, there is building evidence suggesting that using them can help reduce the impact of hearing loss on dementia risk.”

How can hearing aids reduce the risk of dementia?

Taking into account the above studies, it’s important to note that if you do have hearing loss this doesn’t mean you are destined to develop dementia. Similarly, it doesn’t mean that if you wear hearing aids you won’t develop dementia.

However, the evidence is there that hearing aids can significantly reduce the chances of developing dementia, and delay the onset of it. But, how exactly do hearing aids help?

Hearing aids don’t just address hearing loss, they can also contribute to:

Improved auditory function

The primary function of hearing aids is to amplify and clarify sound, providing individuals with a clearer auditory experience. By restoring the ability to hear and understand speech, hearing aids alleviate the cognitive load placed on the brain. This, in turn, may help preserve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.

Brain stimulation

Research has shown that the more the brain is stimulated, the less likely an individual will develop dementia. Hearing loss significantly reduces cognitive function which impacts the stimulation of the brain. Hearing aids when worn regularly can help to increase cognitive function and therefore keep the brain stimulated.

Improved quality of life

Hearing aids help to improve an individual’s communication skills which plays a crucial role in engaging in social interactions. Reduced social activity has been linked to cognitive decline, and therefore a greater risk of dementia. Hearing aids can be valuable in increasing an individual’s social skills and preserving overall cognitive well-being.

Taking a proactive step towards reducing your dementia risk

Managing hearing loss is the most effective solution to prevent it from worsening over time, and reducing the risk of associated health concerns such as dementia. Even if you don’t think you have any hearing difficulties, it’s still important to get your hearing checked regularly.

Harley Street Hearing offers private hearing tests in London, which include a thorough assessment of your hearing and impartial, independent advice on the most suitable treatment for you. We can provide an extensive range of hearing aids from industry-leading manufacturers and fit you with a tailor-made solution.

Contact us online or call us on 020 7486 1053 to find out more or book an appointment.

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