A cross-sectional analysis of the relationship between tinnitus functional index and anxiety and depression disorders in tinnitus patients with normal hearing

Abstract

Background: There is a substantial prevalence of psychopathology of anxiety or depression, and several mental problems in many tinnitus groups. Aim of The Work:To use the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) as a valid scale for assessing the overall severity of tinnitus and detailed analysis of multiple severity domains, and correlating it to The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores in order to establish a potential correlation between tinnitus and anxiety and depressive disorders in order to improve tinnitus clinical implications and rehabilitation. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was designed to explore the prevalence of psychological disorders among patients with tinnitus and to analyse its multiple severity domains thresholds using both TFI & HADS questionnaires. Results: There was a positive correlation between both anxiety & depression subscales of (HADS) and total TFI scores with its subscales. Conclusion: Despite the limited understanding of psychological concerns in tinnitus patients, the prevalence of anxiety disorders in these populations has increased. The reported co-occurrence might impact the clinical course of tinnitus and its management.