Treatment preferences and values in chronic tinnitus patients: A cross-sectional survey study

Abstract

Purpose: Tinnitus is a common condition that can severely impact patients' quality of life. However, little is known about how individuals with chronic tinnitus evaluate and prioritize available treatment options. This study aimed to explore the preferences, values and expectations of patients with chronic tinnitus to inform more patient-centered strategies in clinical care. Material and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May 8 to June 19, 2025, involving 45 patients with chronic tinnitus. A structured 36-item questionnaire assessed demographic information, tinnitus severity using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), treatment preferences across 16 key questions, perceived information needs, and impact on daily functioning. Results: Participants (mean age 50.7 ± 14.8 years, 62.2% male, median tinnitus duration 12 months) showed strong preferences for non-invasive treatments: sound therapy (73.4%), tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT; 55.6%), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT; 44.4%). Pharmaceutical interventions had lower acceptance, with hearing aids showing highest rejection (33.3%). Key concerns included drug dependency (48.9%) and psychiatric medication stigma (28.9%). 51.1% of respondents expected complete symptom resolution despite limited evidence. Information needs were high across all modalities (40–50%). Sleep disorders (THI difference: 12.9 points) and anxiety (6.5 points) significantly associated with increased tinnitus severity. Conclusions: Tinnitus patients strongly prefer non-invasive treatments while harboring unrealistic expectations for cure. These findings underscore the importance of structured education and shared decision-making to align clinical care with patient values and promote more effective tinnitus management.