High-frequency audiometry is more sensitive to detect noise-induced hearing loss than conventional audiometry

Early diagnosis of NIHL can help prevent the progression of hearing loss, especially in speech frequencies. This study compared hearing threshold and prevalence of hearing loss in conventional and high frequencies of audiometry among textile workers. Hearing loss was more common in HFA than conventional audiometry. HFA is more sensitive to detect NIHL than conventional audiometry. It can be useful for early diagnosis of hearing sensitivity to noise, and thus preventing hearing loss in lower frequencies especially speech frequencies.

Source : High-frequency audiometry: A means for early diagnosis of noise-induced hearing loss. Mehrparvar, A.H. et al. Noise and Health, 2011, 13, 55, pp. 402-106. DOI: 10.4103/1463-1741.90295

http://www.noiseandhealth.org/article.asp?issn=1463-1741;year=2011;volume=13;issue=55;spage=402;epage=406;aulast=Mehrparvar;type=0