The Voice Coach will.i.am Reveals Hearing Loss Concerns
Will.i.am, known for his role as a coach on The Voice UK and his work with renowned artists like Lady Gaga and Rihanna, is facing a worsening hearing loss issue due to a chronic condition. Over the years, the 49-year-old Black Eyed Peas member has observed a decline in his hearing, raising fears of permanent damage. He expressed his concerns, stating, “I can’t be quiet, as that’s when I notice the ringing in my ears. There’s always a beep there every day, all day. I don’t know exactly how long I’ve had this, but it’s gradually getting worse.”
Hospital tests have indicated that will.i.am’s ears resemble those of someone much older. The popstar has been diagnosed with tinnitus, a condition characterized by hearing sounds like ringing or buzzing that do not originate from an external source. Tinnitus can lead to heightened sensitivity to certain sounds and difficulties in falling asleep or concentrating, potentially causing emotional distress.
According to health hearing expert Andy Shanks, preventable tinnitus is often caused by excessive noise exposure, age-related hearing loss, stress, medical conditions, and earwax build-up. While there isn’t a universal cure for tinnitus, there are ways to alleviate its symptoms, such as sound therapy and meditation for stress relief. Seeking professional help is crucial, as treatments like hearing aids have been shown to reduce the perception of tinnitus in many individuals. Andy emphasized the importance of addressing persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears promptly for proper management.
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