Tinnitus interferes with cognitive abilities
Chronic, moderate tinnitus interferes with cognitive abilities
Individuals with chronic, moderate tinnitus do more poorly on demanding working memory and attention tests than those without tinnitus, according to a recent study. However, on less complex tasks, no significant differences were found, suggesting that tinnitus has no effect on tasks that involve more involuntary, automatic responses.
“Tinnitus and Its Effect on Working Memory and Attention,” appears in the just released Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research. The study adds to the growing body of research on the relationship between tinnitus and cognition, demonstrating an association between tinnitus and reduced cognitive function. The research has important implications for helping people with tinnitus approach new or difficult tasks that require strategic and conscious control.
