Tinnitus Classification According to Biesinger

Grade I: The tinnitus barely affects the person. Despite the ear noise, there is no sense of distress.

Grade II: The affected individuals are still able to manage their daily life without significant negative consequences. However, the tinnitus is experienced as burdensome in certain situations or during stress.

Grade III: There are permanent impairments in quality of life and professional performance. Disturbances in emotional, physical, and cognitive areas are to be expected. However, the affected individuals are still able to work.

Grade IV: Complete decompensation: Affected individuals are severely impaired both professionally and privately; inability to work, risk of suicide.

From Grade III onward, it is referred to as decompensated tinnitus.