Does use of the MindEar app reduce tinnitus-related distress in patients awaiting tinnitus therapy?
Waiting for NHS appointments can be tough, especially for those bothered by tinnitus. This study wants to see if using the MindEar phone app can help people feel less distressed while they wait to see a tinnitus specialist. The app uses techniques like those found in talking therapies (CBT) to help manage tinnitus. Some people in the study will get free access to the app, using it for a few minutes each day. Others won't use the app. Both groups will complete questionnaires about their tinnitus. It's hoped this study will show if the app helps, and lead to bigger studies in the future. The study is run by the Royal National Ear Nose and Throat Hospital in London.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Many people in the UK experience tinnitus, which is the sensation of hearing sounds like buzzing, ringing, or hissing when there's no outside source. For some, this can be quite upsetting and cause distress. Waiting times to see a specialist for tinnitus support can be long, and this study wants to explore if a mobile phone app called MindEar can help people cope better during this waiting period.
The MindEar app offers activities like challenging negative thoughts, listening to calming nature sounds, and practicing relaxation exercises. These are based on type of talking therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which has been shown to help people manage their tinnitus-related distress. The main goal of this study is to see if using this app helps people feel less anxious or distressed while they're waiting for their first appointment with a tinnitus specialist.
This is a small study happening at just one hospital in London. The researchers hope that the results will be positive and encourage them to set up a larger study in the future, so more people might benefit. It's a way of testing new ideas to improve patient care.
Key takeaways
- The study tests if the MindEar app helps with tinnitus distress while waiting for NHS therapy.
- It's for adults referred to a specific London hospital for tinnitus support.
- You'll either use the app or not, and complete questionnaires.
- The study explores new ways to support patients during waiting list periods.
- Participation is voluntary, and your NHS care won't be affected.
- It runs from November 2024 to July 2025.
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to take part in this study if you are 18 years old or older and have been officially referred to the Royal National Ear Nose and Throat Hospital in London specifically for help with your tinnitus. This means you would have already seen an Ear Nose and Throat doctor and then been sent on to the Hearing Therapy department for further support.
To join, you also need to own a smartphone and have an internet connection, as the study involves using a mobile app. You should be able to read and understand written English. If your eyesight is very poor and would prevent you from using a phone app, or if you already receive tinnitus therapy, this study might not be suitable for you. Also, if your tinnitus is causing you extreme distress and you need urgent help, this study might not be the right fit.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been referred to the Royal National Ear Nose and Throat Hospital in London for tinnitus support?
- Do you own a smartphone with internet access?
- Can you read and understand English well enough to use an app?
- Are you NOT currently receiving tinnitus therapy?
- Is your tinnitus distress manageable (not requiring urgent help)?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be put into one of two groups by chance – like flipping a coin. One group will get free access to the MindEar app. If you're in this group, you'll be asked to use the app regularly, aiming for 5 to 10 minutes each day, for at least eight weeks while you wait for your first tinnitus therapy appointment. The app has different activities to try out.
The other group won't use the app during the study period. It's important for this group not to download or use the MindEar app until the study is over. Everyone in both groups will need to fill out some questionnaires about their tinnitus and how they are feeling when they start the study, and then again about two to three months later. After your first hearing therapy appointment, if you were in the group that didn't use the app, you'll then be able to download it for free.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Royal National Throat, Nose & Ear HospitalCity onlyLondon, England
Common questions
What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
CBT is a type of talking therapy that helps you understand how your thoughts and feelings affect your behaviour, and gives you tools to manage difficult situations, like living with tinnitus.
Do I have to live in London to take part?
You need to have been referred to the Royal National Ear Nose and Throat Hospital in London for tinnitus support to take part in this specific study.
How long will I be involved in the study?
You'll be involved for at least eight weeks, or until your first hearing therapy appointment, and will need to complete questionnaires at the start and after 2-3 months.
What happens if I don't get the app?
If you are in the group that doesn't use the app during the study, you'll get free access to it once the study period is over, after your first hearing therapy appointment.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is being funded by ENT UK, which is a professional organisation for ear, nose, and throat doctors.
How to find out more
Lucy Handscomb
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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