Evaluation of the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to tinnitus in the practice of Portuguese otolaryngologists

Tinnitus is commonly described as a perception of sound in the absence of any external stimulus. It is a significant public health concern. There remains considerable variation in care among healthcare professionals. We conducted an online survey through the Portuguese Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Society (SPORL) mailing list, gathering 75 responses between August and October 2024. Results revealed that Portuguese otolaryngologists typically evaluate 6-10 tinnitus patients per week, primarily with cardiovascular and psychiatric comorbidities, in 20–30-minute consultations at centers without a specialized tinnitus appointment. Physical and audiometric examinations are prioritized, with MRI strongly recommended for unilateral or pulsatile tinnitus. No scoring system is used to assess the impact of tinnitus on quality of life. The establishment of multidisciplinary tinnitus clinics was deemed a priority. There was broad dissatisfaction about the prescription options and the present state of tinnitus research.