[Epidemiologic studies of tinnitus aurium].

The prevalence of tinnitus was examined in a group of 270 persons from an average cross-section of the population of Ulm. For statistical reasons we selected eight groups aged exactly 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 years. Thirty-one percent of those examined have already noted the presence of tinnitus at some point in time. Temporary tinnitus lasting not longer than 5 min. was reported in 19.5% and longer lasting tinnitus in 11.5% of cases. The highest incidence of 55% was found at the age of 20. The previously assumed age dependent increase in the incidence of tinnitus was seen only in the longer lasting type (5 min). The age dependent incidence of tinnitus was statistically correlated to audiogram, blood pressure, grade of physical activity, noise stress, and vertigo. The low incidence of tinnitus in presbyacusis (11%) differs from previous studies. Hypertension was associated with a lower incidence of tinnitus than normotension or hypotension.