Anxiety in Patients With Hyperacusis and Tinnitus: Differences Between Women and Men

Introduction Hyperacusis is a specific auditory disorder characterized by an increased sensitivity to sounds, which is often accompanied by a significant psychological component. Some studies suggest that individuals with hyperacusis exhibit greater anxiety compared to the general population. However, it remains unclear whether gender affects the relationship between hyperacusis and anxiety. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the role of gender in the interplay between hyperacusis, tinnitus, and anxiety. Material and methods The study group consisted of 106 patients with hyperacusis and tinnitus. There were 55 women and 51 men. The women were aged between 20 and 72 years (M = 44.9; SD = 12.8); the men were aged between 19 and 72 years (M = 45.4; SD = 12.0). A clinical interview, an audiological examination, and three questionnaires – State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Hyperacusis Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) – were applied. Results The levels of anxiety in women and men were similar, but exceeded normative values established for the general population. In women, hyperacusis was not a significant predictor of anxiety (β = 0.13, p = 0.34), whereas tinnitus severity was (β = 0.47, p = 0.002). In men, both hyperacusis (β = 0.36, p = 0.004) and tinnitus severity (β = 0.48, p < 0.001) significantly predicted anxiety. Conclusions This study highlights the complex interplay between gender, hyperacusis, tinnitus, and anxiety. The findings suggest that interventions for subjects with hyperacusis and tinnitus should be gender-specific.