THE noise can be unbearable and the effect on the sufferer life-changing. Tinnitus doesn't discriminate: it can affect anyone.
More than two million Australians are affected by tinnitus - a constant ringing or buzz in the ear that can potentially cause anxiety, depression and a general feeling of hopelessness for those who experience it.
The sound may be a ring, buzz, whistle, hiss, hum or cicada-like sound, with no known source.
It can be low, medium or high-pitched - a single noise or several different noises that can vary considerably. It may be continuous, or come and go.
There is no cure, however strategies to cope with the condition can include cognitive behaviour therapy, lifestyle changes, the use of good quality hearing aids and avoiding loud noises.
"Tinnitus can be a serious and debilitating condition which affects one in 10 of our population, however there is very little support or open dialogue about the symptoms or associated mental health impact on sufferers," said Carol Wilkinson from Better Hearing Australia (Vic).
"The lack of help has a severe impact on the community, as tinnitus is often related to anxiety, with suffereers needing support to alleviate distress.
"We aim to raise awareness within the medical profession, particularly GPs, so that patients can feel more confident about treatment options and will no longer be simply told to 'just live with it'."
February 6-12 is Tinnitus Awareness Week, a partnership between the British Tinnitus Association and Better Hearing Australia.
As part of the week, a Tinnitus Australia alliance has been formed, and a website launched with support information and advice for sufferers.
Together with Tinnitus kicks off with a Tea for Tinnitus event at Better Hearing House, 5 High St, Prahran, Vic, on February 6.
- Hearing advice line 1300-242-842 (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm)
FEELING isolated by her experience, tinnitus sufferer and Better Hearing Australia (Vic) board member Victoria Didenko launched an Australian awareness campaign in 2015.
My Ear Rings for Peace saw collaboration between Better Hearing Australia (Vic) and Australian jewellery designer Jan Logan to raise money with the aim of establishing a national tinnitus support line in Australia.