TINNITUS IMPORTANT POINTS
■ Tuning fork testing is especially important when otoscopy and systemic examinations are unremarkable. ■ It is vital to recognise the possible causes of seemingly innocuous tinnitus (especially sudden onset) and institute early appropriate treatment. ■ There is great variation in how people react to tinnitus – some cope well with little disturbance while others feel anxious or depressed. ■ Treating underlying anxiety and depression improves outcomes. ■ Many patients report their tinnitus-related stress started when their doctor told them “nothing could be done”. ■ Most people will habituate naturally to tinnitus, as long as they regard the sound as meaningless.