Assessing the Knowledge and Perceptions Regarding Tinnitus among the Patients Attending Outpatient Department of Civil Hospital Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh

Background: Tinnitus is characterized by the perception of various phantom sounds such as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking, which can significantly impact a person's quality of life. The present study aimed to assess the awareness regarding tinnitus among patients attending outpatient department of Civil hospital, Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh. Material and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted between January 2023-April 2023 among the patients attending civil hospital Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh and selected by convenience sampling technique. Data was collected through face-to-face interview using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using epi info v7 software using appropriate statistical tests. Results: A total of 400 respondents including 145 (36.25%) were from urban area and 255(63.75%) were from rural area were participated in the study. Among the total of 400 patients came to OPD, maximum 226(56.5%) were males, 118(29.5%) were having age between 21-30 years, educated up to Matric and Senior Secondary 166(41.5%), Hindu 376(94.0%) and were employed 301(75.25%). In the present study 14%(56) participants had very good knowledge (16-20 marks) towards Tinnitus, 30.5% (122) had good knowledge (12-15 marks), 31.25%(125) had fair knowledge (8-11 marks) and 24.25% (97) having poor knowledge (<8 marks). Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings of this study indicate a considerable lack of knowledge and awareness about tinnitus among patients. The results emphasize the need for educational interventions and awareness campaigns to bridge the knowledge gap and empower patients to seek appropriate management strategies