'Most GPs lack tinnitus training'
Updated on 31 July 2007
Less than a third of GPs have any training about a debilitating ear condition which affects one in seven Britons, according to figures released.
Tinnitus, which can cause severe distress and suffering by disrupting people's work, relationships and sex lives, affects more than seven million people in Britain, the new research from the Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) said.
But 70% of GPs said they had never received any training on the incurable condition, often described as ringing, whistling, humming or buzzing in the ears or head.
In RNID figures published in 2006, 41% of respondents said their tinnitus had a negative effect on their personal relationships, with 27% of those suffering a reduced sex drive, and 36% blaming a lack of understanding from their partner. Forty-two per cent said the condition had a negative effect on their work life.
Sherry Mumford, 60, from Hastings, has had tinnitus for 27 years.
She visited her GP who told her to call a help line and referred her to the RNID. She has not been back to him since for help with her tinnitus - instead she practices yoga, meditates and walks in the countryside on a daily basis.
Stress aggravates her condition and she feels that it has affected her confidence at work and in social situations.
Daniel Hogan, 21, from Waltham Abbey, Essex, had mumps two years ago and went to his GP because he thought his ears were blocked. His GP sent him away without even doing a hearing test. It subsequently transpired that he lost the hearing in his right ear through the illness. Daniel's tinnitus got progressively worse and after many return trips to his GP, he was finally referred to hospital.
He is now getting treatment but finds it hard to focus when studying or in a quiet room as the sound affects his ability to concentrate.
The RNID is calling for GPs to take a more understanding and holistic approach to patients with tinnitus, but to refer those whose condition has a severe impact on their lives to an ear, nose and throat specialist. The RNID has launched an advice service at www.tuneouttinnitus.org.uk.
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