An audiologist in St Albans is warning people of early signs of deafness in the run-up to Tinnitus Week.

The national awareness week begins on February 8 and Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care in St Albans is offering free hearing assessments and will provide expert advice on therapies to help deal with Tinnitus.

Tinnitus is the name of the condition where people suffer with noises in their heads or ears, which can sound like a buzzing, chirping, roaring, hissing, whistling or clicking noise.

There is no actual cure for Tinnitus.

Dr Gemma Gray, clinical scientist and professional services manager at Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care, said: “It’s true, there is no cure for tinnitus, but we effectively treat tinnitus sufferers every day as there are plenty of ways to manage it.

“Sound enrichment therapy is a simple practice which can help. Because tinnitus is most noticeable in quiet environments, you may have difficulty falling asleep when bombarded by the unremitting ringing.

“This is one of the most frustrating aspects of the condition, and can lead to fatigue and anxiety. But by playing relaxing and repetitive audio, such as the sound of breaking waves or rainstorms, it can make it easier to deal with tinnitus.

“Also, leaving the radio on as low-level background noise can help mask symptoms.”