Professor Grant Searchfield talks tinnitus
- The Hearing House
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
To mark global Tinnitus Awareness Week 2026 which starts today, we interviewed Professor Grant Searchfield, head of the University of Auckland's Audiology department. He is also co-director of the Eisdell Moore Centre for hearing and balance research, with his focus on cognitive processes involved in tinnitus perception and innovative technology for management of hearing loss and tinnitus.
At The Hearing House, we’re committed to raising awareness about tinnitus and providing support for people with any form of hearing differences. If you're concerned about persistent sounds in your ears, don't hesitate to reach out to an audiologist.
What is tinnitus and what is it caused by?
Tinnitus is hearing sound, when there is no sound. It’s the brain’s reaction (irritation) to a change in sensitivity in the hearing system, usually caused by hearing damage (sometimes so small that it doesn't show up in hearing tests) and head injury. Emotional upset can sensitise the hearing system, making existing tinnitus more noticeable.
It’s similar to migraine or chronic pain conditions and is as common as diabetes and asthma.
Is it more commonplace among people who have pre-existing hearing differences?
Tinnitus is more common in people who already experienced some changes in their hearing. “Hidden hearing loss” can mean tinnitus appears before measurable hearing test changes.
Cochlear implants can sometimes reduce tinnitus, but it can persist or recur after the implant. We are looking at conducting some research in the future to try some new tinnitus therapies with cochlear implant users.
Is there a connection between tinnitus and mental health issues?
Yes, tinnitus can be very distressing in its own right. Some people are also more prone to depression, anxiety, and poor sleep. Distress can precede tinnitus, result from it, or form a self‑reinforcing cycle. This is why tinnitus management often involves counselling and stress‑reduction techniques.
How many New Zealanders are affected by tinnitus?
The best national estimate comes from a large NZ study (nearly 70,000 respondents) that we undertook 10 years ago which found 6% of New Zealanders aged 14 years and over experience tinnitus, with the breakdown of 6.5% in males, and 5.5% in females. We don't know if it’s becoming more common, it’s possible that recreational noise may increase tinnitus, but occupational noise is less as more people use hearing protectors. It also depends on how people are asked about what they hear - most people experience some temporary ear sounds, especially when it’s very quiet.
Is tinnitus more common among younger or older people?
The 6% overall prevalence rises sharply with age to 13.5% among adults aged 65 and over. Tinnitus becomes more common with age, increasing the national demand for tinnitus services.
Is tinnitus treatable? If so, how?
Although there’s no medicine specifically for tinnitus, there are very effective therapies, including making sure any ongoing causes are treated (e.g. ear infections), managing anxiety and depression, and reducing hearing sensitisation such as from unmanaged hearing loss.
Then there are tinnitus specific therapies, such as the neurotherapies developed at the University of Auckland that are focused on reduced the magnitude of tinnitus by targeting its loudness, annoyance and awareness.
The Hearing House is here to support you. Contact us if you have any concerns about changes in your hearing.
Comments