Threshold of octave masking as a predictor of temporary threshold shift following repeated noise exposure.
Cumulative auditory effects of repeated exposure to a 3-min 110 dB SPL white noise were examined in 20 subjects (10 male, 10 female). Statistical analysis revealed greater 8-kHz temporary threshold shift in female ears despite equivalent preexposure 8-kHz thresholds across gender. Cumulative effects were seen in thresholds of octave masking scores, especially in female subjects, possibly reflecting increased susceptibility following the second noise exposure.
D000162:Acoustics; D000328:Adult; D001305:Auditory Fatigue; D001309:Auditory Threshold; D005260:Female; D006317:Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced; D006320:Hearing Tests / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010470:Perceptual Masking; D012306:Risk; D012737:Sex Factors