Vitamin D and Tinnitus
Tinnitus — the perception of sound without external source — affects ~15% of adults. Cross-sectional studies find lower serum 25(OH)D in adults with idiopathic tinnitus than in matched controls. Small supplementation trials show modest improvements in Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) scores.
Observational data
A 2020 Turkish study (Nemati) reported 40% of tinnitus patients were deficient (< 20 ng/mL) vs 27% of controls. Severity correlated inversely with 25(OH)D. Multiple similar cohort findings; mechanism uncertain.
Supplementation evidence
Nemati 2022 randomised 47 tinnitus patients with 25(OH)D < 30 ng/mL to vitamin D or placebo × 3 months. THI score improved significantly more in the vitamin D group. Small sample, limited generalisability. No large confirmatory trial to date.
Practical guide
- Bothersome tinnitus: test 25(OH)D and correct any deficiency.
- Otolaryngology evaluation for pattern change, hearing loss, unilateral tinnitus.
- Evidence-based tinnitus interventions: sound therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy for tinnitus, hearing aids if hearing loss present.
- Vitamin D is adjunct, not stand-alone treatment.