Sound relief
TINNITUS is a debilitating condition that affects five million people in the UK.
Luton social worker Andrew Fazekas is one of them.
He was first diagnosed in 2004 and admits it was a bleak period in his life. “It affected me terribly and I felt so isolated,” he said.
He even contemplated suicide to end the ‘fish tank sound’ in his head.
But the 51-year-old gradually developed coping strategies.
“I’ve used meditation to help me sleep and breathing exercises to control symptoms,” he explained.
“But I’d like to see more support groups and local help for sufferers.”
National charity Deafness Research UK is hoping to facilitate this through its freephone information line.
It is also dedicated to finding new cures, treatments and technologies for anyone who is deaf or hearing-impaired.
Chief executive Vivienne Michael said: “Tinnitus can have a devastating affect on the quality of life.
“It’s a very complex condition and we are determined to do something about it.
“Along with funding research into cures and treatments, we are committed to supporting and helping sufferers cope with their situation.”
> For more information call 0808 808 2222 or email info@deafnessresearch.org.uk
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Luton
Wednesday 23 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 11 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 11 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: North east
Your view
Please sign in to be able to comment on this story.