31 years of sitting under engines and gearboxes
31 Years of combined military and civilian flying, (28 on rotary) as a crewman. I have profound noise induced hearing loss and associated Tinnitus. The RAF helmets have improved over the years but I'm not convinced that they offer effective hearing protection. In the old days, not a great deal was said about hearing damage.
Recently been recommended to see an ENT specialist for the first time. Prescribed digital hearing aids. Still flying (not with the hearing aids in) as the condition doesnt affect my performance in the air. Unfortunately I can now hear the wife when the TV is on. On the plus side, I can now hear what people are saying in pub and busy locations and have improved clarity overall. There is no going back though, my hearing will not improve, it will only continue to get gradually worse.