Study uncovers factors contributing to tinnitus

The presence of certain heavy metals in the blood could signify a higher risk of experiencing tinnitus.

Investigators detailed that prior research has indicated that excessive exposure to heavy metals or trace elements polluted into the environment can elevate the risk of hearing loss. In a study published in Medicine, the investigators used 2012 to 2018 cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database on the blood levels of lead, cadmium, mercury, selenium and manganese among nearly 5,000 participants to better understand the relationship between heavy metal exposure and tinnitus.

The investigators found that the participants with higher levels of lead and cadmium in their blood were more likely to experience tinnitus compared with those who had lower levels of the heavy metals in their blood. There were also nonlinear associations between blood levels of lead, cadmium, mercury and selenium — but not manganese — and the risk of tinnitus. Further, the investigators noted that male participants, non-Hispanic white participants and those aged 40 to 60 years were more likely to experience tinnitus with higher levels of selenium in their blood.

The findings could point to new avenues for treatment among patients with tinnitus and elevated blood levels of heavy metals. However, the authors acknowledged, “Future longitudinal studies are needed to elucidate the causal pathways and determine whether reducing body burdens of these metals can alleviate tinnitus symptoms.”

Read more: Medicine

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