Andie,
I was told my hearing problems were more from chemo than radiation. I had Cisplatin.
I didn't have ringing in my ears but things sounded muffled. Kind of like when you put a seashell to your ear. Dr. had me do a hearing test before and after chemo. Lost some high-pitched frequency. Can't hear the microwave beep or tea kettle whistle unless I'm right next to it. The car radio is hard to hear too.
Hope your friend gets his spirits up. Too bad he won't come to this site. It helps Sooo much just knowing others understand you and so many have gotten thru so much. He's lucky to have you for a friend.
Karen