Tinnitus

Tinnitus is defined as an individual’s perception of an audible sensation that does not correspond to an environmental event. It is widely reported that tinnitus affects between 10% and 15% of the population and that about 10% of individuals reporting tinnitus are severely handicapped by its presence. Therefore, it is probable that nearly 1 billion people worldwide experience the sensation and that tens of millions of people require tinnitus-related services. Unfortunately, patients with tinnitus often encounter health-care professionals who lack experience and knowledge regarding appropriate counseling and interventions. The management of patients with tinnitus is in many ways a nascent practice; the growing awareness and value of interprofessional care will be an essential element in audiology’s ability as a profession to meet the substantial need ...