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Medical evaluation of tinnitus
1Nashville Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic, 4230 Harding Road, Suite 803, Nashville, TN 37205, USA. schwaber@nashvilleent.com
Abstract:
It has been estimated that 15% of the population in the United States has tinnitus which lasts greater than 5 minutes. It has also been estimated that 155 million patients have previously sought care for this symptom. It is clear that the incidence of tinnitus increases with age and by 70 years of age at least 25 to 30% of patients experience tinnitus constantly. In addition, noise exposure and noise induced sensorineural hearing loss are most often seen in tinnitus patients. Furthermore, of interest to the physician, 94% of patients who have sought medical care have not been offered treatment for their tinnitus, rather they have been informed that nothing could be done for them, and they should "live with it".
Insights
Millions suffer from tinnitus, a condition often linked to aging and noise exposure. Despite seeking care, most patients receive no treatment, being told to "live with it".
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Audiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Tinnitus affects an estimated 15% of the US population, with prevalence increasing with age.
- Approximately 155 million individuals have sought medical care for tinnitus.
- Constant tinnitus affects 25-30% of patients by age 70.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the high prevalence of tinnitus.
- To underscore the association between tinnitus, aging, and noise exposure.
- To address the lack of effective treatment options offered to patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on tinnitus prevalence.
- Analysis of patient-reported seeking of care for tinnitus.
- Examination of age-related incidence and contributing factors like noise exposure.
Main Results:
- 15% of the US population experiences tinnitus lasting over 5 minutes.
- Tinnitus incidence rises with age, affecting 25-30% constantly by 70.
- Noise exposure and sensorineural hearing loss are common in tinnitus patients.
Conclusions:
- A significant portion of the population experiences tinnitus, particularly with age and noise exposure.
- The majority of patients seeking care for tinnitus are not offered treatment.
- There is a critical unmet need for effective tinnitus management strategies.
