The effect of written reassuring information on out-patients complaining of tinnitus

The study investigated the effect of a two-page leaflet designed to reassure patients complaining of tinnitus. One half of new attenders at a tinnitus clinic received the leaflet while the other half did not. Clinic staff were blind to the condition to which patients were assigned. Tinnitus distress was assessed at the second appointment by means of a standardized questionnaire. Results indicated that questionnaire scores for the informed and non-informed subjects did not differ. However the informed group reported having significantly fewer 'unfulfilled needs'. They were less likely to want a medical cure or professional guidance. The level of general emotional distress as measured by the General Health Questionnaire did not moderate these effects.