Evaluating how the body's response relates to distressing tinnitus.

Using sympathetic nervous system responses to evaluate distressing tinnitus: a pupillometry and skin conductance feasibility study.

NIH-funded research James H Quillen VA Medical Center · NIH-10928371

This study is looking at how the body's reactions to stress are connected to the distress caused by tinnitus in Veterans, and it aims to find better ways to understand and help those who experience this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJames H Quillen VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Mountain Home, United States)
Project IDNIH-10928371 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between sympathetic nervous system responses and tinnitus distress, particularly in Veterans. By using techniques like pupillometry and skin conductance, the study aims to objectively measure how tinnitus affects listening effort and emotional processing. The goal is to develop tools that can differentiate between the presence of tinnitus and the distress it causes, which is crucial for improving patient care and treatment outcomes. Participants will undergo assessments that capture their physiological responses while they engage with auditory stimuli.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans experiencing tinnitus and its associated distress.

Not a fit: Patients without tinnitus or those who do not experience distress related to their tinnitus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for individuals suffering from distressing tinnitus.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using physiological measures to assess tinnitus distress is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in related fields, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Mountain Home, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cardiac DiseasesCardiac Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.