BootsnAll Travel Community

Hey all,
I don't know if anyone is in the same boat as me on this one but I have Tinnitus in both ears, of a moderate level & I have to wear small noise makers at night to block out the ringing - so I can sleep.
I am very shortly about to start backpacking trip in Latin America & then New Zealand and elsewhere. What worries me is that a large part of the backpacking experience is the party side of things i.e. clubs and bars. The thing is I must avoid loud music at all costs because of the further damage it will do and cause me further hearing loss. Just wondering if anyone out there has a similar problem and can share advice with me? I've had it for 5 years now, and although for all that time I've worn earplugs in clubs it has still got worse and worse.

Also,I think it means I cannot try diving which I normally would have done. Does anyone know if that is true also?

Thanks for any help or comments,
Jamie

I have never heard of this Tinnitus disorder before. I have not traveled much but I did a Contiki tour through Europe two years ago. a lot of the parties where at bars in the camping grounds. Always good times and there was always just as much action out side the club as there was inside I don’t think this would be true for the main stream clubs in the city's but at the back packer hostels and camping grounds I think you could still have a lot of fun.

As far as diving goes I would talk to your doctor and then give it a try. I don’t think you would have a problem you may just have to take it slower when diving.

When diving you must equalize your body’s airspaces as the water pressure changes around you. I do not see why it would cause you any problems if you could do this. I googled it and came up with this story
http://www.t-gone.com/tinnitus-faq/sinus-02.asp

I say if your interested in diving research it and do it it is awsome!

Hello,

I also have an ear problem - mine don't pressurise so flying, diving etc is really painful. I can't handle really loud bass in music well either. I ended up going to my doctor and getting recommended some ear plugs that were stronger than normal. So ask your doctor and see what he suggests. For the diving thing, I wear these ear plugs that automatically pressurise - their meant for flying but do the job under water as well.

Good luck!

Hi Jamie,
The most widely accepted opinion of the cause of tinnitus is that neurons in the auditory system fire inappropriately, giving the false impression of sound. The problem with diving is that the air in your nasal cavities is compressed, forcing you to equalise. As long as the tinnitus you suffer from does not lead to blockage of the sinus passages (through mucus build-up etc, which is uncommon), diving for you should be no different to normal activities.
Also has any doctor you have seen discussed cochlear implants? Many people with hearing loss AND tinnitus, often report that their tinnitus goes away when the implant is turned on. Unfortunately this is not my area of expertise, but have a look into it with your local doctor because diving is an experience unlike any other.
There is some great diving in NZ, such as the Rainbow Warrior wreck near Paihia on the North Island, so definitely give diving a try!
All the best,
James