Find-A-Study

An Evaluation of Neurobiological Similarities of Tinnitus and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Lay Description

The purpose of this study is to determine the overlap of symptoms between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and tinnitus-related distress (ringing or buzzing in one or both ears). We will evaluate the overlap of symptoms by conducting assessments for psychological problems and tinnitus, audiometric assessments, as well as evaluate brain activity while undergoing a functional magnetic resonance imaging session (MRI). The researchers hope to learn shared and unique brain regions between tinnitus and PTSD to develop new and innovative treatment approaches

Eligibility

Eligible Ages: Over 18
Eligible Genders: All
Accepts Healthy Volunteers: Yes

Inclusion Criteria

Male and female DEERS eligible Veterans or active duty service members, ages 18 and above
preferred language is English and to read or speak English at a 6th grade level
stable on psychotropic medications
those with PTSD (T&P; PO) must meet full criteria for PTSD based on the DSM-5 and assessed by an independent evaluator using the CAPS-5
those with chronic, constant tinnitus (T&P, TO) will be identified by self-report and confirmed with the audiometric assessment.

Exclusion Criteria

psychiatric hospitalization in the last 12 months
significant cognitive impairment
psychiatric problems and/or high suicide risk warranting immediate treatment
neurobiological disorders, Meniere’s disease, temporomandibular disorders
history of major head trauma
history of seizures
conditions that would prevent completion of fMRI scan (any type of electronic, mechanical, or magnetic implant, coil, filter, or stent, any type of surgical clip or staple, shunt, any type of metal object, hearing aid, spinal fusion, halo vest, IV access port, eyelid spring, artificial eye, artificial heart valve, biostimulator, severe hyperacusis)
Those with tinnitus (T&P; TO) will be excluded if their tinnitus is
- intermittent
- objective or pulsatile
- present for less than 6 months.

Study Design

Arm Groups

Study Contact

Amanda Flores
(210) 562-6726
floresa13@uthscsa.edu

Anna Gonzalez
(210) 562-6700
gonzaleza4@uthscsa.edu

Irene Hargita
(210) 562-6704
hargita@uthscsa.edu

John Moring
(210) 562-6716
moringj@uthscsa.edu