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Is Zinc Deficiency a Risk Factor for Tinnitus? An Analysis from Chronic Idiopathic Tinnitus Patients with Normal
Soo Jeong Choi1,2, Sun-Uk Lee2,3, Jiwon Chang1
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
The Journal of International Advanced Otology
|June 30, 2026
Summary
Zinc deficiency is linked to increased tinnitus severity in individuals with normal hearing, impacting daily life functions. Screening for zinc deficiency and supplementation may offer a therapeutic avenue for tinnitus management.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Chronic idiopathic tinnitus affects a significant portion of the population.
- The relationship between nutritional status, specifically zinc levels, and tinnitus severity requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the association between zinc deficiency and tinnitus severity in patients with chronic idiopathic tinnitus and normal hearing.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, cross-sectional study of 107 patients with chronic idiopathic tinnitus and normal hearing.
- Assessment of serum zinc levels, Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) scores, and tinnitus loudness.
- Zinc deficiency defined as serum zinc <66 μg/dL.
Main Results:
- 20.6% of patients exhibited zinc deficiency.
- Zinc-deficient patients reported significantly higher total THI scores and functional component scores.
- No significant difference in objective tinnitus loudness was observed between groups.
Conclusions:
- Zinc deficiency is associated with greater tinnitus severity, particularly impacting functional aspects.
- Screening for zinc deficiency in tinnitus patients may be beneficial.
- Targeted zinc supplementation could be a potential therapeutic strategy.
