A retrospective study on tinnitus prevalence and disease associations in the hospital based population

Abstract

Background: Tinnitus is the perception of sound, which is not generated by external stimulus. Due to its clinical heterogeneity, lack of objective measurements and accompanying symptoms, a gold standard treatment, i.e., effective for every patient has not been established yet. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence and characteristics of tinnitus, disease, and lifestyle factors associated with tinnitus. Materials and Methods: Data were obtained from a total of 224 patients (mean age 46.21 ± 12.65), 141 men and 83 women, who attended the audiology department between 2015 and 2021. Results: We found that the tinnitus pitch perception (PP) of males was significantly higher than females (P < 0.001). In addition, we observed a significant positive correlation between tinnitus PP and tinnitus loudness perception (P < 0,005). 12.1% (27 patients) of the individuals included in the study had metabolic disorders (Vitamin D deficiency, diabetes, and cholesterol). Fifty-four percent (121 patients) of the individuals included in the study had normal hearing. Conclusions: Metabolic and cardiovascular diseases should be taken into account for tinnitus anamnesis. The amount of tinnitus patients with normal hearing is also notable.