Nearly half (47 per cent) of all British adults admit they regularly
experience symptoms of tinnitus including rushing, ringing or popping
sensations in their ears and yet nearly one third (29 per cent) don't seek
medical help, instead believing it will eventually go away on its own.

According to the Cerumol Tinnitus report, conducted by Cerumol Olive
Oil Ear Drops, of 10,000 British adults, only one in five (19 per cent) of
Brits would book an appointment with their GP to get their ears checked for tinnitus.

The top five most common symptoms of ear discomfort are: popping and
crackling (47 per cent), ringing in the ears (37 per cent), itchy ears (19
per cent), thumping and rushing sounds in the ears (18 per cent) and
impaired balance (15 per cent).

With Tinnitus Awareness Week fast approaching (6-12 February) Doctor Roger Henderson said: "Some patients may notice a permanent "swishing" noise in either ear, occurring as blood flows past a blockage in the carotid artery. Excessive wax can be a common cause for mild tinnitus. The brain re-adjusts to compensate for the blockage, thereby causing the pulsating buzzes or ringing sensations that are heard when suffering from tinnitus.

"It is important to be aware of any unusual or prolonged symptoms in your
ears and to always visit your GP if you are worried. However, many people
are unaware of the simple steps they can take to treat the problem of
impacted wax and how they can help manage their ear health. Ear drops are often a cheap solution and a safe treatment that can relieve discomfort
caused by waxy build-ups."

Cerumol has treated millions of ears for over 50 years and is a tried and
trusted pharmacy brand and has just launched Cerumol Olive Oil Ear
Drops for safe and effective earwax removal. Available from Boots, Sainsbury's, Wilkinsons and high street pharmacies without a prescription and retail at £3.85 per 10ml bottle.