Richard Gillis

I started to notice a high-pitched ringing noise in both my ears which became significantly louder once I was in quieter places.

”After taking up DJing in 2016, I started to develop a mild form of tinnitus in my ears due to being around constant loud music. It wasn’t until a few months in I started to notice a high-pitched ringing noise in both my ears which became significantly louder once I was in quieter places. This is when I started to get concerned.

The main worries that were getting me down was not tinnitus itself as I am lucky it is only a mild form - but the real fear of it getting worse, ultimately becoming life-threatening and stopping me from doing the things I love.

The main benefit I took from the Initial Assessment was gaining information; both in terms of test results, and verbal feedback

I found out about The Tinnitus Clinic after doing some research online and it looked like the most reputable and genuine company. The main benefit I took from the Initial Assessment was gaining information; both in terms of test results, and verbal feedback on my accounts of my own experiences, understanding, and research.

It was important to me to correct any misconceptions I might have had, so that I could take the correct action as regards to protecting my ears without giving up all the activities I enjoy.

The best way to do this was being able to get my questions answered by an expert who was up-to-date with the latest studies in the field, and Sylvia was excellent in that role.

I have full confidence in her expertise, and she was very forthcoming and communicated clearly

The help and advice I received from Sylvia Kewish, Clinic Manager and Clinical Audiologist, at The Tinnitus Clinic in Birmingham I found to be very beneficial. I have full confidence in her expertise, and she was very forthcoming and communicated clearly and in a personable and friendly way.

Most importantly I would advise people to limit the hours they spend without correct ear protection in any loud environment – as the consequences you face could ultimately be life-changing.

One of the most useful aspects to me from attending The Tinnitus Clinic is I now have a comprehensive set of test results so I can go back next year, have the same tests to see if my hearing-loss prevention methods are working, and if the symptoms are getting any better or worse. Without these tests, I wouldn’t have any objective way of knowing.

I think this is a smart idea for any DJ or performing musician who regularly performs with loud music.

This next assessment might be unique to me, but a prime motivation for me is to have such an in-depth hearing assessment periodically (i.e. annually or every 2 years), so that I can compare results between them, and have some objective feedback on if the measures I have taken to protect my hearing are being effective enough. I think this is a smart idea for any DJ or performing musician who regularly performs with loud music.

Much more information and awareness needs to be out there and available to help people such as myself avoid the fear which often develops once they are diagnosed with tinnitus.“