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Identifying non-otologic risk factors for tinnitus: A systematic review
Ann N Deklerck1, Jens M Debacker1, Hannah Keppler2,3
1Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Head and Skin, Gent University, Ghent, Belgium.
Summary
Non-auditory factors like cardiovascular and psychological issues significantly influence tinnitus development. This review highlights these links, aiding future research and clinical identification of at-risk patients.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Audiology
- Psychology
Background:
- Tinnitus is often linked to peripheral auditory lesions causing phantom sounds.
- However, non-auditory factors are increasingly recognized as significant contributors to tinnitus.
- These include psychological, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular influences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively describe non-otologic risk factors for tinnitus.
- To summarize existing literature on the association between these factors and tinnitus.
Main Methods:
- A narrative systematic review was conducted.
- Searches included MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, manual searches, and grey literature.
- Epidemiological studies on non-otologic risk factors and tinnitus were included.
Main Results:
- Fifty-five studies were included, showing variable quality and high risk of bias.
- Identified risk factors include cardiovascular, psychological, neurological, musculoskeletal, and dietary elements.
- Poor tinnitus definitions and sampling issues were noted.
Conclusions:
- Multiple non-otologic factors are important in tinnitus development, maintenance, or aggravation.
- While causality is uncertain, findings guide future research and clinical practice.
- Clinicians can use this information to identify and treat at-risk patients.
