Objectives: This study aimed to explore the demographic and clinical features of tinnitus
individuals and analyse its correlation with associated comorbidities. Methods: The
study population comprised 147 participants (66 men, 81 women; median age: 52 years)
who experienced persistent tinnitus. Comprehensive assessments were carried out, including
audiological examinations, scoring using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, and thorough
medical evaluations. Statistical analyses were applied to explore the correspondences
between tinnitus, hearing loss, and various comorbidities, including cardiovascular
conditions, metabolic disorders, gastroesophageal reflux disease, autoimmune diseases,
pulmonary diseases, and allergic rhinitis. Results: The analysis indicated a slight
predominance of females, comprising 55.1% of the participants, with a median onset
of tinnitus around the age of 50. Chronic tinnitus was noted, lasting approximately
46 months. Hearing loss was noted in 52.4% of patients, with bilateral tinnitus being
the most prevalent type, affecting 44.2% of individuals. Dyslipidaemia was found to
significantly predict bilateral tinnitus (p = 0.003*) and left-sided tinnitus (p =
0.023*). Additionally, atherosclerosis was associated with hearing impairment (p =
0.006*) and right-sided tinnitus (p = 0.044*). Dyslipidaemia was also significantly
correlated with elevated intensity values (p = 0.04*). Furthermore, atherosclerosis
was significantly associated with higher levels of hearing loss (p < 0.00001*). Conclusions:
The study emphasises the complex nature of tinnitus and its links to cardiovascular,
metabolic, and other comorbidities, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive,
interdisciplinary management.
