(NAPSA)—If you have a ringing in your ears that no one around you can hear, you're not alone. Chances are, you have tinnitus, a condition that affects an estimated 10 to 15 percent ofadults. WhatIt Is ‘The sound maybesoft or loud, high pitchedorlow, or even roaring,clicking, hissing or buzzing.It’s not a disease but can be a symptom that something else is wrong. Many experience temporary tinnitus after a loud concert. It can often comefrom noise-induced hearing loss or ear and sinus infections. It mightalso be a sign of a moreserioushealth issue. = ‘~ If you've been hearing strange sounds, you maybeglad to also hear the condition can be managed. What To Do ‘The first thing is to see your primary care physician to check if anything is blockingthe ear canalor ifan underlying condition is causing yourtinnitus.If not, consult a hearing care professional for a thorough evaluation.If the exam shows you have a hearingloss, you may benefit from using hearingaids. What Can Help To assist both peoplewith tinnitus and their hearing care professionals, there's now setof three managementtools from the Ida Institute, an independent, nonprofit organization. 1. The Tinnitus First Aid Kit provides resources, reassurance, and relaxation techniques to help maintain physical and mental health. People with tinnitus can feel alone and frightened. The kit offers a safe space to learn aboutthe condition. www.tinnituskit.com. 2. The Tinnitus Thermometerallows clinicians to ‘measure’ and monitortheir patients’ tinnitus experience to monitor their progress and determine the most effective rehabilitation strategies. 3. The Tinnitus Communication Guidefor clinicians improves commu- nications and patient comfort. It helps people see that although tinnitus may always be present, the distress it causes will likely decrease over time. Learn More To get the free tools and furtherfacts on tinnitus, go to www.idainstitute.com/ tinnitus.
