Ear-Shaking Loud Scream Made My Tinnitus Much Worse

[Mr Joel]

Hi Michael,

If I may ask a potentially obvious question... I have found that electric strimmers run at around 90 dB whereas my petrol runs around 110 dB. Would you say it was worth the investment from an ear protection point of view? I'm assuming a 20 dB difference could be quite substantial?

 

[Michael Leigh]

Hi Michael,

If I may ask a potentially obvious question... I have found that electric strimmers run at around 90 dB whereas my petrol runs around 110 dB. Would you say it was worth the investment from an ear protection point of view? I'm assuming a 20 dB difference could be quite substantial?

Hi Ben,

My petrol strimmer and mower also run at 110 dB. They are noisy but have no problems when using ear-defenders. I switched to petrol because I was thoroughly fed-up with electric gardening equipment. They are too problematic and just don't have the power like a petrol engine. I have a fair-sized lawn and hedges, which are a pleasure to cut without the teething problems and headache. I can attach a hedge cutter to the strimmer.

I get the impression you are a professional gardener and landscaper? If this is case, you will need the very best electric strimmer, to compete with your STIHL petrol strimmer, which I assume you are using or something of similar quality.

I believe using a 90 dB electric strimmer will be easier on your ears. However, what's of more importance is the duration of use and how this will affect you? There is no way of knowing until you try. Your auditory system is sensitive at the moment but I believe this will improve with time.

Sorry that I cannot be more precise.

All the best
Michael

 

[SD7]

Hi Ben,

My petrol strimmer and mower also run at 110 dB. They are noisy but have no problems when using ear-defenders. I switched to petrol because I was thoroughly fed-up with electric gardening equipment. They are too problematic and just don't have the power like a petrol engine. I have a fair-sized lawn and hedges, which are a pleasure to cut without the teething problems and headache. I can attach a hedge cutter to the strimmer.

I get the impression you are a professional gardener and landscaper? If this is case, you will need the very best electric strimmer, to compete with your STIHL petrol strimmer, which I assume you are using or something of similar quality.

I believe using a 90 dB electric strimmer will be easier on your ears. However, what's of more importance is the duration of use and how this will affect you? There is no way of knowing until you try. Your auditory system is sensitive at the moment but I believe this will improve with time.

Sorry that I cannot be more precise.

All the best
Michael

Hi Michael. In your personal experience and as a veteran of the forums, how long is an individual's ears sensitive post-acoustic trauma?

Thank you.

 

[Michael Leigh]

Hi Michael. In your personal experience and as a veteran of the forums, how long is an individual's ears sensitive post-acoustic trauma?

Thank you.

Hi @SD7

Thank you for your question. I wish I were able to answer it conclusively but unfortunately I can't, because there are many factors involved that will be unique to each person. Noise induced tinnitus can be very complex and when it's accompanied with hyperacusis, which is often the case with noise trauma the complexity increases. To prove my point, some people that attend this forum have had noise induced tinnitus for over 5 years and still have difficulty managing it because their ears are oversensitive to sound.

However, some people that suffer noise trauma and develop tinnitus, with or without hyperacusis notice an improvement within 2 years. Sometimes seeing an Audiologist that specialises in tinnitus and hyperacusis management helps with recovery and habituation.

Please read my post: The habituation process, in the link below for more information on recovery from noise trauma.

Michael

The Habituation Process | Tinnitus Talk Support Forum

 

[SD7]

Hi @SD7

Thank you for your question. I wish I were able to answer it conclusively but unfortunately I can't, because there are many factors involved that will be unique to each person. Noise induced tinnitus can be very complex and when it's accompanied with hyperacusis, which is often the case with noise trauma the complexity increases. To prove my point, some people that attend this forum have had noise induced tinnitus for over 5 years and still have difficulty managing it because their ears are oversensitive to sound.

However, some people that suffer noise trauma and develop tinnitus, with or without hyperacusis notice an improvement within 2 years. Sometimes seeing an Audiologist that specialises in tinnitus and hyperacusis management helps with recovery and habituation.

Please read my post: The habituation process, in the link below for more information on recovery from noise trauma.

Michael

Thank you Michael. That makes sense. There is a lot of variation. I have printed out your links and appreciate your reply and insight.

I'm a little over a week since my auditory traumas began.

Hoping the best for all of us.

 

[Mr Joel]

Thank you Michael. That makes sense. There is a lot of variation. I have printed out your links and appreciate your reply and insight.

I'm a little over a week since my auditory traumas began.

Hoping the best for all of us.

That's what I did. Michael is certainly a blessing to this forum.

What caused your trauma?

 

[Mr Joel]

Hi Ben,

My petrol strimmer and mower also run at 110 dB. They are noisy but have no problems when using ear-defenders. I switched to petrol because I was thoroughly fed-up with electric gardening equipment. They are too problematic and just don't have the power like a petrol engine. I have a fair-sized lawn and hedges, which are a pleasure to cut without the teething problems and headache. I can attach a hedge cutter to the strimmer.

I get the impression you are a professional gardener and landscaper? If this is case, you will need the very best electric strimmer, to compete with your STIHL petrol strimmer, which I assume you are using or something of similar quality.

I believe using a 90 dB electric strimmer will be easier on your ears. However, what's of more importance is the duration of use and how this will affect you? There is no way of knowing until you try. Your auditory system is sensitive at the moment but I believe this will improve with time.

Sorry that I cannot be more precise.

All the best
Michael

Hi Michael,

I wish I was a professional, LOL. I started my own little company around 2 years ago and have got rather busy! I'm in Croydon so if you ever fancy a strimming session let me know

I've been onto my regular garden supplier and it looks like Sthil are producing some very good electric models, for professional use. I've already started costing up a strimmer and hedge cutter.

I just did an hour's mowing (with a few breaks) with both ear plugs and defenders. The mower is 95 dB so theoretically I had around 60 dB going into my ears. I felt no discomfort during the work so I'm praying all is well. I've given the heavy strimming work to someone else for now.

Thanks

 

[Michael Leigh]

I wish I was a professional, LOL. I started my own little company around 2 years ago and have got rather busy! I'm in Croydon so if you ever fancy a strimming session let me know

Hi Ben,

I admire your modesty and congratulations on starting up your gardening company and I wish you every success with it. I live by the sea in Brighton but am born and bred in London, Streatham, so know Croydon very well. My brother lives in Thornton Heath. I regularly go to London which is only one hour drive on the M23.

I've been onto my regular garden supplier and it looks like Sthil are producing some very good electric models, for professional use. I've already started costing up a strimmer and hedge cutter.

Sthil tools are excellent and have no doubt their electric strimmers will serve you well. Pleased to hear that you were able to work without any issues. Just take things easy and take a break when you can to go give the ears a rest.

The fact that you're still able to work is a good sign and I feel confident things will continue to improve for you.

Take care,
Michael

 

[Mr Joel]

Hi Ben,

I admire your modesty and congratulations on starting up your gardening company and I wish you every success with it. I live by the sea in Brighton but am born and bred in London, Streatham, so know Croydon very well. My brother lives in Thornton Heath. I regularly go to London which is only one hour drive on the M23.

Sthil tools are excellent and have no doubt their electric strimmers will serve you well. Pleased to hear that you were able to work without any issues. Just take things easy and take a break when you can to go give the ears a rest.

The fact that you're still able to work is a good sign and I feel confident things will continue to improve for you.

Take care,
Michael

Hi Michael.

I love Brighton with all of its coffee shops and vinyl haunts, all whilst being by the sea. I am envious!

What a small world. I was born and bred in Thornton Heath and lived there for 21 years. Honestly, if you are ever passing through it would be an honour to buy you a coffee (and maybe a cake )

I have costed up the electric equipment and it is looking like a viable option. It is also a much greener way to work so has many additional benefits other than just the dB reductions.

I have had a fairly bad week just gone, especially sleep wise, but I am trying to remain positive which is greatly helped by people such as yourself. Enjoy the rest of the weekend!

 

[Michael Leigh]

I love Brighton with all of its coffee shops and vinyl haunts, all whilst being by the sea. I am envious!

What a small world. I was born and bred in Thornton Heath and lived there for 21 years. Honestly, if you are ever passing through it would be an honour to buy you a coffee (and maybe a cake )

Hi Ben,

It is a small world and I might take you up on the offer of a coffee and cake someday. I'm fairly sure you know Natwest Bank in Norbury? Well, there's a Costa coffee shop just passed it on the left before the traffic lights. Brighton's nickname is London by the sea, as a lot of Londoners move here.

I have costed up the electric equipment and it is looking like a viable option. It is also a much greener way to work so has many additional benefits other than just the dB reductions.

If you can, I would hold off a while before buying Sthil electric equipment or similar brand, as I don't think you will get the longevity from battery power as you will from a petrol engine. The constant recharging of the batteries, over time they will lose their efficiency and will need to be replaced which could work out quite expensive.

On the other hand, if you are going to be using mains corded electric equipment, I don't think it would be a problem but this could restrict your work capabilities.

Best of luck whatever you decide to do.
Michael

 

[Mr Joel]

Hi Ben,

It is a small world and I might take you up on the offer of a coffee and cake someday. I'm fairly sure you know Natwest Bank in Norbury? Well, there's a Costa coffee shop just passed it on the left before the traffic lights. Brighton's nickname is London by the sea, as a lot of Londoners move here.

If you can, I would hold off a while before buying Sthil electric equipment or similar brand, as I don't think you will get the longevity from battery power as you will from a petrol engine. The constant recharging of the batteries, over time they will lose their efficiency and will need to be replaced which could work out quite expensive.

On the other hand, if you are going to be using mains corded electric equipment, I don't think it would be a problem but this could restrict your work capabilities.

Best of luck whatever you decide to do.
Michael

Morning Michael.

My grandparents used to live on Norbury, right by the fire station. I'm getting lots of flashback memories now. I know the area very well and Costa sounds good.

Alternatively if I ever find myself coming to Brighton or should I say, London by the sea, I will let you know.

Thanks for the advice and I will be sure to look into it all in detail before making any rash decisions.

I'm hoping my Ginkgo biloba will arrive soon as well.

Enjoy the day and speak soon.

 

[Michael Leigh]

My grandparents used to live on Norbury, right by the fire station. I'm getting lots of flashback memories now. I know the area very well and Costa sounds good.

Morning Ben,

I know the fire station well in Norbury. I used to live just past Green Lane which is right on the border between Streatham and Norbury.

Ginkgo Biloba is good and I advise taking it for as long as you can. It can cause nose bleeds for some people after a while as it did for me. This lasted just a few moments then would quickly go and still happens now and again but nothing to worry about. It is a good product and my ENT doctor many years ago said he advises all this tinnitus patients to take it and also Magnesium.

Good luck.

Michael

 

[Mr Joel]

Morning Ben,

I know the fire station well in Norbury. I used to live just past Green Lane which is right on the border between Streatham and Norbury.

Ginkgo Biloba is good and I advise taking it for as long as you can. It can cause nose bleeds for some people after a while as it did for me. This lasted just a few moments then would quickly go and still happens now and again but nothing to worry about. It is a good product and my ENT doctor many years ago said he advises all this tinnitus patients to take it and also Magnesium.

Good luck.

Michael

Hi Michael

I hope you have been keeping well? Thought I would come and post a quick update...

My Ginkgo Biloba arrived and I take a tablet a day along with Magnesium. I went and purchased a set of custom earplugs from a place in Sidcup but somehow managed to lose them 2 weeks ago whilst at work and they have not been seen since! So I am back to foam ones now.

I know you had reservations regarding electrical equipment but a company I work for offered to help me with the purchase (substantially) so I have a battery hedge cutter and strimmer arriving in the near future. That should reduce the equipment noise from around 110 dB to around 92 dB. My mower is rated at 95 dB. Regarding the mower, I was using it today and measured the noise level at hand level. This came up around 75 dB. When putting it next to the mower engine it hit 95 dB. I was wearing thick gloves that help with vibration and double ear protection. I do still get paranoid but there is very little else I can do. I cannot say I felt any discomfort and the noise level was very quiet. In your opinion, does this sound ok to be doing? I am trying to limit it and get other people to mow for me where possible.

Finally, I may have mentioned this before, but 3 weeks ago I woke up with what I now believe to be called 'typewriter tinnitus' in my right ear which has NEVER really caused me any problems. I couldn't actually link it to any particular noisy event. It is very strange and seems to react to noises... the other morning I was laying next to my son who was asleep and everytime he exhaled, the tinnitus would 'ring'. Have you ever come across this? I cant say it is as annoying as my left ear which still shows no sign of improvement but just the fact it is there is a nuisance in itself.

On a lighter note, I hope you have your swimming trunks ready for the incoming heatwave! Although I cannot say I venture into the sea much when I go to Brighton. However, I am a fan of the water at Seaford, one of my favourite places to go to that is not to far from me!

Take care

 

[Michael Leigh]

My mower is rated at 95 dB. Regarding the mower, I was using it today and measured the noise level at hand level. This came up around 75 dB. When putting it next to the mower engine it hit 95 dB. I was wearing thick gloves that help with vibration and double ear protection. I do still get paranoid but

Hi Ben,

It is good to hear from you and I'm pleased that you are back at work. I am doing well and thanks for asking.

Try not to concern yourself about sound levels as this can cause worry and feed into the paranoia you speak of. Remember, you are working in open space and the sound from your gardening equipment is being dispersed over a wide area and not bouncing and reflecting off wall then being pickup up by your ear and funnelled down the ear canal towards the eardrum.

Tinnitus is mostly mental and I have discussed this in many of my posts and articles. The more attention you give it the more it will have an influence on you and this will usually be negative. Please read my posts in the links that I have given you to help reinforce positive thinking and if possible, stop using sound meters to measure sound levels. They often cause more harm than good as mentioned in my post: Hyperacusis, As I See It.

I can't swim so won't be down by the seafront basking on top of the water this weekend. Today was really hot. I spent it at home washing the car then painting the garden fence. I already have my itinerary planed for tomorrow. I will be setting off for the coast at 10 am. It's only a 15 minute drive and hopefully find a parking space on the main seafront road. It's just a short walk over to the many benches placed along the shoreline where I can sit and listen to the soothing waves and the seaguls overhead. The weather is supposed to be good and the sun out and hope to basking in it whilst reading my book on the Kindle.

Around 12 o'clock, I'll take a stroll up through Brunswick Square. These beautiful Regency buildings, built in Georgian style have very ornate architecture that's painted in Hove cream, converted into flats are a sight to behold. They lead on to the main Western Road where the famous Banker, fish & chips shop is located. They happen to sell the best fish & chips in Sussex and highly recommend them. Returning to my favourite spot I'll begin to savour my lunch with every bite. Within a short time I expect to be greeted by not one but a flock of eager seaguls ready to pounce if I'm not willing offer a piece of my food. The menacing look in their eyes as they hone in on my lunch, tells me they mean business with that very long sharp beak if I don't succumb to their wish. I know better and wisely relent. Once satisfied they will retreat and leave me in peace.

Michael

 

[Mr Joel]

Hi Ben,

It is good to hear from you and I'm pleased that you are back at work. I am doing well and thanks for asking.

Try not to concern yourself about sound levels as this can cause worry and feed into the paranoia you speak of. Remember, you are working in open space and the sound from your gardening equipment is being dispersed over a wide area and not bouncing and reflecting off wall then being pickup up by your ear and funnelled down the ear canal towards the eardrum.

Tinnitus is mostly mental and I have discussed this in many of my posts and articles. The more attention you give it the more it will have an influence on you and this will usually be negative. Please read my posts in the links that I have given you to help reinforce positive thinking and if possible, stop using sound meters to measure sound levels. They often cause more harm than good as mentioned in my post: Hyperacusis, As I See It.

I can't swim so won't be down by the seafront basking on top of the water this weekend. Today was really hot. I spent it at home washing the car then painting the garden fence. I already have my itinerary planed for tomorrow. I will be setting off for the coast at 10 am. It's only a 15 minute drive and hopefully find a parking space on the main seafront road. It's just a short walk over to the many benches placed along the shoreline where I can sit and listen to the soothing waves and the seaguls overhead. The weather is supposed to be good and the sun out and hope to basking in it whilst reading my book on the Kindle.

Around 12 o'clock, I'll take a stroll up through Brunswick Square. These beautiful Regency buildings, built in Georgian style have very ornate architecture that's painted in Hove cream, converted into flats are a sight to behold. They lead on to the main Western Road where the famous Banker, fish & chips shop is located. They happen to sell the best fish & chips in Sussex and highly recommend them. Returning to my favourite spot I'll begin to savour my lunch with every bite. Within a short time I expect to be greeted by not one but a flock of eager seaguls ready to pounce if I'm not willing offer a piece of my food. The menacing look in their eyes as they hone in on my lunch, tells me they mean business with that very long sharp beak if I don't succumb to their wish. I know better and wisely relent. Once satisfied they will retreat and leave me in peace.

Michael

Hi Michael,

This message has genuinely been the highlight of my day for many reasons so much so, I raised a glass of heavily peated whisky to you this evening.

Firstly, the positivity, which I have been lacking today, was very well received and much appreciated.

Secondly, your planned day tomorrow which sounds incredible and makes me slightly envious and thirdly, your description of the fearsome seagulls. I can tell you've had dealings with them before and I wish you well as you encounter them again tomorrow.
I have been to a fish and chip shop in Brighton but it was a while ago and I forget the name. I will keep your recommendation in mind for the next time I am visiting. I hope you enjoy your day and spare a thought for me gardening in what looks to be extreme heat! Enjoy.

 

[Michael Leigh]

This message has genuinely been the highlight of my day for many reasons so much so, I raised a glass of heavily peated whisky to you this evening.

A glass of whisky, brandy or wine helped me many times when I was going through a difficult time with tinnitus Ben. To some degree I regarded them as an elixir when nothing else helped me through the cacophony of noise I endured. I stuck resolutely to a plan and wouldn't consume alcohol before 6 pm and would limit myself to no more than a glass or two.

Firstly, the positivity, which I have been lacking today, was very well received and much appreciated.

Positivity will ebb and flow and you'll have good and not so good days. This is all part of the healing and habituation process. It is important not get too confident as things can change suddenly. This will pass as you get used to the way the tinnitus and hyperacusis reacts. They will settle down just take each day slowly and don't look for too much and please put the sound level meter away.

your description of the fearsome seagulls. I can tell you've had dealings with them before and I wish you well as you encounter them again tomorrow.

Anyone that lives in Brighton or another coastal town, knows seaguls can be fearless especially where food is concerned. They are known to swoop down and snatch ice-cream and anything else that's edible out of unsuspecting tourists' hands. YouTube have many videos of this happening.

I have been to a fish and chip shop in Brighton but it was a while ago and I forget the name. I will keep your recommendation in mind for the next time I am visiting.

If you fancy fish & chips when visiting Brighton check out Bankers. As the name suggests it used to be a Bank and is on Western Road, just walking distance from the seafront. For me they are simply the best.

Take care.
Michael

 

[Mr Joel]

A glass of whisky, brandy or wine helped me many times when I was going through a difficult time with tinnitus Ben. To some degree I regarded them as an elixir when nothing else helped me through the cacophony of noise I endured. I stuck resolutely to a plan and wouldn't consume alcohol before 6 pm and would limit myself to no more than a glass or two.

Positivity will ebb and flow and you'll have good and not so good days. This is all part of the healing and habituation process. It is important not get too confident as things can change suddenly. This will pass as you get used to the way the tinnitus and hyperacusis reacts. They will settle down just take each day slowly and don't look for too much and please put the sound level meter away.

Anyone that lives in Brighton or another coastal town, knows seaguls can be fearless especially where food is concerned. They are known to swoop down and snatch ice-cream and anything else that's edible out of unsuspecting tourists' hands. YouTube have many videos of this happening.

If you fancy fish & chips when visiting Brighton check out Bankers. As the name suggests it used to be a Bank and is on Western Road, just walking distance from the seafront. For me they are simply the best.

Take care.
Michael

Thank you again for your positive words Michael.

Tell me, did your day go to plan and were you accosted by any seagulls?!

 

[Michael Leigh]

Thank you again for your positive words Michael.

Tell me, did your day go to plan and were you accosted by any seagulls?!

Ha ha... I had a splendid day by the sea Ben. There were plenty of seagulls and fortunately I wasn't accosted. I was able to have my fish & chips in peace and do a little reading. The sun was gloriously hot and the seafront packed with people. I want to return tomorrow but have work to do at home in the garden.

Hope you had a good day.
Michael

 

[Mr Joel]

Ha ha... I had a splendid day by the sea Ben. There were plenty of seagulls and fortunately I wasn't accosted. I was able to have my fish & chips in peace and do a little reading. The sun was gloriously hot and the seafront packed with people. I want to return tomorrow but have work to do at home in the garden.

Hope you had a good day.
Michael

Sounds like a perfect day! Mine was work and family so no relaxing unfortunately. Today hasn't been particularly great either... I know I mentioned about potentially meeting for a coffee at some point but if I was to come to Brighton and buy you a Bankers fish and chips one evening whilst the weather is nice, it would be lovely to speak to someone in person who truly knows what this condition is like. I understand if you'd rather not but if you do, please tell me. I was saying to my wife earlier, you're the person who has helped me the most during this turbulent time! So regardless, thank you.

Ben

 

[Michael Leigh]

Today hasn't been particularly great either... I know I mentioned about potentially meeting for a coffee at some point but if I was to come to Brighton and buy you a Bankers fish and chips one evening whilst the weather is nice, it would be lovely to speak to someone in person who truly knows what this condition is like

Hi Ben.

Sorry to know your day hasn't gone as well as you would have liked. This happens and will probably happen again and is the reason I advise in my posts, tinnitus and hyperacusis can fluctuate a lot but things will improve so give it time.

Thank you for your very kind invitation but I am unable to accept.

Take care,
Michael