Hipoacusia induzida por ruído através da audiometria de altas frequências

Noise-induced hearing loss by high frequency audiometry

Abstract

The result of sound-boosting activities, including the use of music players and going to shows and nightclubs, recreational
noise is a hearing loss risk factor, with noise-induced hyperacusis being one of the main causes of foreseeable disability.
Objective: In order to determine the usefulness of high frequency audiometry for noise-induced hyperacusis prediction,
a cross-sectional observational analytical study was conducted, with ENT examinations and a survey. Methods: Between
September 2013 and June 2014, 55 adolescents in pre-university classes in Praia, Havana province, were given pure tone
and high frequency audiometry tests in order to defi ne levels of noise-induced hyperacusis and links to causative factors. Results: 43/55 (78%) of them listened to music players every day; with 25 (58%) of them plugged in for more than two
hours a day; 17/43 (39.5%) stated that they listen at maximum volume; 16 (29%) go to nightclubs frequently for four
hours or more; 17/55 (31%) practice target-shooting without earmuffs; 43/55 have signs of hearing damage shown
through high frequency audiometry, although not yet apparent in pure tone audiometry. Conclusion: Consider using
high frequency audiometry as a diagnostic tool for the early detection of hearing disorders in patients subject to specifi c
risk factors such as noise exposure.