No abstract

A retrospective study of tinnitus sufferers who had committed suicide was undertaken. A questionnaire was compiled, and circulated world-wide. Adequate information was obtained on 28 suicides. An association between suicide and left-sided tinnitus reported previously, was not conclusively replicated. In fact, no particular tinnitus parameter, or associated audiological symptom was over-represented in the suicide series. Demographically, tinnitus suicide victims were characterized by being male, elderly, and socially isolated. There was a high prevalence of psychiatric morbidity, in particular depression (70%). A suicide attempt within the year preceding suicide occurred in five individuals.

This report describes a three-centre study of the effectiveness of tinnitus maskers, combination instruments (masker plus hearing aid), and hearing aids in the management of tinnitus. Some 472 patients entered the study with 382 reaching the first evaluation session after a minimum period of 6 months from fitting, and 206 reaching the second evaluation not less than 6 months after the first. The study included two control groups, by which to assess the comparative benefit to be derived solely from the investigation and counselling of such patients. The principal results were as follows: thorough investigation and careful counselling do much to help the patient; much further benefit is given by tinnitus masking instruments of various kinds; maskers are more often effective than hearing aids, although the latter are frequently the most appropriate first treatment of those patients who have substantial (but not yet treated or insufficiently treated) hearing difficulties as well; there is no evidence of masking having any harmful effect on hearing. None of the audiometric or tinnitus tests currently employed can be regarded as predictive, either of tinnitus severity, or of the eventual outcome of masking therapy, however certain measurements may help as a guide to patient management.

knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He cannot stand to be touched. And he detests the color yellow This improbable story of Christopher's quest to investigate the suspicious death of a neighborhood dog makes for one of the most captivating, unusual, and widely heralded novels in recent years. Discussion Guide 1. On pages 45-48, Christopher describes his "Behavioral Problems" and the effect they had on his parents and their marriage. What is the effect of the dispassionate style in which he relates this information?

The positive findings give support for the use of cognitive behavioural therapy/meditation for chronic tinnitus sufferers.