General Overview of Tinnitus in Children: Prevalence, Etiology, and Management Strategies

Abstract

Tinnitus is defined as the perception of sound in the absence of an external auditory stimulus. Although it has been extensively studied in adults, tinnitus is also commonly observed in children. Detecting tinnitus in children can be challenging, especially in younger age groups, as they may struggle to describe the sounds they perceive. Consequently, the true prevalence of pediatric tinnitus remains uncertain; however, studies suggest that tinnitus may be more common among children than previously estimated. This review article examines the prevalence, etiological factors, diagnostic methods, and management strategies associated with tinnitus in children. Major contributing factors include hearing loss, noise exposure, neurological and psychological conditions, ototoxic medication use, and genetic predisposition. Early diagnosis is critical due to the possible negative effects of tinnitus on children’s academic performance, social integration, and emotional development. Audiological evaluations, psychosocial assessment tools, and innovative play-based methods are recommended as effective strategies for diagnosing tinnitus in pediatric populations. Current management approaches prioritize education and counseling, sound therapy, psychological support, and other non-pharmacological interventions. Further long-term studies and the development of pediatric-specific diagnostic and treatment protocols are needed to better understand and manage tinnitus in children.