Multidimensional Effects of Hyperacusis: A Study on Tinnitus, Anxiety, Cognitive Function, Sleep, and Quality of Life

Background: Tinnitus and hyperacusis are often cooccurring and quite prevalent symptoms. The effects of tinnitus on sleep quality, anxiety, cognitive abilities, and quality of life are well documented. However, studies investigating the effects of hyperacusis are limited. Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between hyperacusis and tinnitus, anxiety, cognitive functions, sleep, and quality of life. Research Design: Prospective cross-sectional study. Study Sample: Forty people reporting hyperacusis were included in the study. These individuals were categorized into two groups: those with hyperacusis only and those with both hyperacusis and tinnitus. In addition, 30 healthy participants were included as a control group. Data Collection and Analysis: The Khalfa Hyperacusis Questionnaire, Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Digit Span and Stroop test TBAG form, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Short Form-36 (SF-36) were administered to these individuals. Results: The total sleep quality of the hyperacusis and tinnitus group was poorer compared with the control group, whereas only the subjective sleep quality of the hyperacusis group was poorer than that of the control group (p < 0.05). Both patient groups had higher BAI scores compared with the control group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of the Digit Span and Stroop tests (p > 0.05). Both patient groups had lower quality-of-life scores compared with the control group (p < 0.05). However, individuals in the hyperacusis and tinnitus group had lower scores in the physical functioning subscale of the SF-36 compared with those in the hyperacusis group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The performance of individuals with hyperacusis on the Stroop and Digit Span tests was similar to that of healthy individuals. However, individuals with hyperacusis had higher levels of anxiety and lower sleep quality and quality of life compared with healthy individuals. In cases where tinnitus accompanied hyperacusis, a more pronounced decline in quality of life was observed.