Association of aural symptom burden with anxiety and depression in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss

To investigate the association of aural symptom burden (ASB) with anxiety and depression in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL).

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✦ The floor

Discussion

Signed responses from readers of the wire.

✦ Clinical Takeaway ✦

Audiologists and ENT teams treating sudden sensorineural hearing loss should consider routine screening for anxiety and depression, particularly in patients reporting multiple or severe aural symptoms.

✦ Why It Matters ✦

Quantifying the relationship between aural symptom load and mental health in sudden hearing loss patients supports a case for integrated psychological support within audiology and otology care pathways.

✦ Key Points ✦

01Investigates the link between number/severity of ear symptoms and anxiety/depression in sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) patients.
02Published in Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi (Chinese Medical Journal), a major peer-reviewed Chinese medical journal.
03Higher aural symptom burden appears associated with increased anxiety and depression risk.
04Findings support psychosocial screening as part of SSNHL management.
05Highlights the need for multidisciplinary care incorporating mental health support.

✦ Claims & Evidence ✦

ClaimEvidenceSupport

Greater aural symptom burden (e.g., tinnitus, ear fullness, vertigo) is associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression in SSNHL patients.

studypartially supported

✦ Research metadata ✦

PMID: 42967653
DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn112137-20260211-00459.
Journal: Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi
Publication type: research_article
Evidence level: 3
Population: Patients diagnosed with sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Intervention: Assessment of aural symptom burden (e.g., tinnitus, vertigo, ear fullness)

Primary outcomes

Anxiety levels; Depression levels; Association between aural symptom burden and psychological outcomes

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