OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of the somatosensory influence on annoyance and quality of life of individuals with tinnitus.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included individuals with tinnitus of both sexes, aged ≥18 years, recruited from a specialized otolaryngology outpatient, and evaluated by a multidisciplinary team (otorhinolaryngologists, physical therapists, and audiologists). An evaluation adapted from the Diagnostic Criteria of Somatosensory Tinnitus (ST) was performed to verify the influence of the somatosensory system on the cause of tinnitus. The intensity of discomfort from tinnitus was assessed by the Numerical Rating Scale, the impact on quality of life by the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), and factors of exacerbation of tinnitus were self-reported. Individuals were divided into ST and non-ST groups. Unpaired t-test and Chi-Square were used for group comparisons; Cohen's d and Phi measured effect sizes.

RESULTS

A total of 100 individuals were evaluated: 46 from the ST group and 54 from the non-ST group. The ST group demonstrated greater discomfort from tinnitus (p <  0.01); stress was identified as a factor of exacerbation 82.6 (p <  0.01), and sleep disturbance as a consequence of tinnitus 63% (p =  0.04). Additionally, the ST group presented a greater impact on quality of life in the functional domain (p = 0.03) and total THI score (p =  0.05) than the non-ST group.

CONCLUSION

Individuals with ST reported greater discomfort from tinnitus and a more significant impact on the quality of life.