DEAR ABBY: I'm in my late 60s and profoundly deaf. I also have a severe case of tinnitus, which is a chronic ringing sensation in my ears. My case is unbelievable. The sounds might be compared to a bad LSD trip without psychedelic visions. They sometimes last as long as four days.
Like most people, you will probably think I'm a nut case. I hear music or singing, or both -- the same compositions over and over. Would you be good enough to consult one of your authorities to verify the fact that I am not crazy? I believe that would be an otorhinolaryngologist. This small town does not have such a specialist. Hoping you can help me ... HEARING THINGS
DEAR HEARING: Write to: The American Tinnitus Association, P.O. Box 5, Portland, Ore. 97207. You will be referred to a specialist near you. Please enclose a long, self-addressed stamped envelope (75 cents) and $1 to cover the cost of their printed materials. It's a pittance to pay for peace of mind.