Could your waist size be affecting your tinnitus?
A recent research study has uncovered a potential link between tinnitus and body composition, particularly in men. So, what did the study explore, and what are the implications for people living with tinnitus?
What the study looked at
The study used data from the ninth Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey, which included various physical, ear and hearing tests and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to assess body composition. Participants were categorised into two groups: those with tinnitus and those without. The tinnitus group was further divided into acute (lasting less than six months) and chronic (lasting six months or more) subgroups.
Study results
Higher body fat percentages: Men with tinnitus had significantly higher body fat percentages in the arms, legs, trunk, and overall body compared to men without tinnitus. This was true for both the acute and chronic tinnitus groups.
Increased waist circumference: Waist circumference, an indicator of central obesity, was also higher in men with tinnitus. This suggests a specific pattern of fat distribution linked to the condition.
Lower muscle and fluid percentages: Men with tinnitus had lower leg muscle percentages and reduced total body and intracellular fluid levels. These findings indicate that muscle and fluid imbalances may also play a role in tinnitus.
Chronic tinnitus and body composition: Chronic tinnitus was associated with higher trunk fat percentages and greater waist circumference, alongside lower intracellular fluid percentages. This highlights a more pronounced body composition imbalance in those with long-term tinnitus.
Gender differences
Interestingly, the study found no significant differences in body composition between women with and without tinnitus. This suggests that the link between body composition and tinnitus may be more relevant to men, potentially due to differences in how men and women store fat and maintain muscle.
Implications
These findings suggest that body composition, particularly fat distribution and muscle mass, might influence or be influenced by tinnitus in men. Understanding this relationship could lead to better management strategies for tinnitus, such as lifestyle interventions focusing on reducing body fat and increasing muscle mass.
What does this mean for you?
If you are a man suffering from tinnitus, it may be worthwhile to consider your body composition as part of your overall health strategy. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing your body fat and muscle mass could potentially help in managing tinnitus symptoms.
Reference: Han, SY, Lee, SY, Suh, MW. et al. Associations between tinnitus and body composition: a cross-sectional study. Scientific Reports 14, 16373 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-67574-w