Alleviate or eliminate chronic ringing in ears (tenitis).

Briefly describe a specific question, or set of related questions, about a health care test or treatment that this program should consider.: Alleviate or eliminate chronic ringing in ears (tenitis).
Does your question include a comparison of different health care approaches? (If no, your topic will still be considered.): no
If yes, explain the specific technologies, devices, drugs, or interventions you would like to see compared:
What patients or group(s) of patients does your question apply to? (Please include specific details such as age range, gender, coexisting diagnoses, and indications for therapy.): Everyone.
Are there subgroups of patients that your question might apply to? (For example, an ethnic group, stage or severity of a disease.)
Describe the health-related benefits you are interested in. (For example, improvements in patient symptoms or problems from treatment or diagnosis.): Elimination of ringing in the ears.
Describe any health-related risks, side effects, or harms that you are concerned about.

Does your question include a health care drug, intervention, device, or technology available (or likely to be available) in the U.S.?

Which priority area(s) and population(s) does this topic apply to? (check all that apply)

EHC Priority Conditions (updated in 2008)

AHRQ Priority Populations

Low income groups
Minority groups
Women
Children
Elderly
Individuals with special health care needs, including individuals with disabilities or who need chronic care or end-of-life health care

Describe why this topic is important.: Chronic ringing in the ears is a terrible affliction for those who suffer with it, and there does not appear to be any known cure. Several doctors consulted did not have any suggestions for relief.
What specifically motivated you to ask this question? (For example, you are developing a clinical guideline, working with a policy with large uncertainty about the appropriate approach, costly intervention, new research you have read, items in the media you may have seen, a clinical practice dilemma you know of, etc.): My mother suffers from what was diagnosed as tinitis (chronic ear ringing). It impedes her ability to hear clearly and often keeps her awake at night.
Does your question represent uncertainty for clinicians and/or policy-makers? (For example, variations in clinical care, controversy in what constitutes appropriate clinical care, or a policy decision.): no
If yes, please explain:

How will an answer to your research question be used or help inform decisions for you or your group?: May give guidance when consulting a physician.
Describe the timeframe in which an answer to your question is needed.: one year.
Describe any health disparities, inequities, or impact on vulnerable populations your question applies to.

Other Information About You: (optional)

Please choose a description that best describes your role or perspective: (you may select more than one category if appropriate): May give guidance when consulting a physician.

Are you making a suggestion as an individual or on behalf of an organization?: Individual

Effective Health Care Program