A review of the perceptual effects of hearing loss for frequencies above 3kHz

作者：Moore Brian C J

来源：International Journal of Audiology, 2016, 55(12): 707-714.

DOI：10.1080/14992027.2016.1204565

• Hearing loss
• noise exposure
• high frequencies
• speech perception
• sound localization

Background: Hearing loss caused by exposure to intense sounds usually has its greatest effects on audiometric thresholds at 4 and 6kHz. However, in several countries compensation for occupational noise-induced hearing loss is calculated using the average of audiometric thresholds for selected frequencies up to 3kHz, based on the implicit assumption that hearing loss for frequencies above 3kHz has no material adverse consequences. This paper assesses whether this assumption is correct. Design: Studies are reviewed that evaluate the role of hearing for frequencies above 3kHz. Results: Several studies show that frequencies above 3kHz are important for the perception of speech, especially when background sounds are present. Hearing at high frequencies is also important for sound localization, especially for resolving front-back confusions. Conclusions: Hearing for frequencies above 3kHz is important for the ability to understand speech in background sounds and for the ability to localize sounds. The audiometric threshold at 4kHz and perhaps 6kHz should be taken into account when assessing hearing in a medico-legal context.

• 出版日期2016