Does Sound Conditioning Protect Against Temporary Hearing Damage

Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced Clinical Trial

Official title: Does Sound Conditioning Protect Against Temporary Hearing Damage

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

This research project will contribute to the research surrounding the effect on the ear after noise exposure. This ever-growing field of research has never been more applicable than now with the increase of recreational noise exposure. Noise is the leading cause of preventable hearing loss and excessive occupational noise along with recreational noise exposure can cause a devastating disability. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates 1.1 billion young people could be at risk of hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices.

One of the mechanisms that could increase the resistance against noise induced hearing loss is 'sound conditioning'. Animal studies have found that prior exposure to low level noise over a period of a few weeks can 'condition' the ear. This conditioning then reduces the susceptibility to high level exposure i.e. strengthening the ear. In this study, the investigators aim to determine whether previous exposure to loud noise can condition the human ear, reducing the temporary hearing loss and temporary tinnitus ("ringing in the ear") that sometimes occurs after attending a loud nightclub or live music event.

There are many implications of this research. For one it will allow us to understand more about the susceptibility to exposure of sounds and the resistance against noise induced hearing loss. This will mean that the investigators can enable appropriate interventions if necessary. For example, individuals who are more susceptible due to low prior exposure may be advised that they are at risk, and encouraged to use hearing protection. Being able to learn more about the impacts of noise with hearing and educate others such as understanding the impacts from high-level exposure.

Clinical Trial Description

STUDY OBJECTIVES

i) To identify if there is a relationship between previous sound exposure levels and TTS and tinnitus after a single loud noise event.

STUDY DESIGN

Type of Study: Basic Science Study, Between Groups Trial Aim: To investigate if previous sound conditioning reduces susceptibility to TTS and tinnitus when comparing to those without prior exposure.

Purpose: To increase understanding on the effects of noise exposure. Duration: Data collection will be completed by February 2020 Participants: 40 normal hearing young (18-35) participants in good general health and fluent in English.

Spilt into groups of two. One group (20, 10f:10m) with previous exposure i.e. nightclubs ++, the other group (20, 10f:10m) with less exposure measured through NESI. ;

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Hearing Loss
• Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced

• NCT number: NCT03878875
• Study type: Observational
• Source: Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
• Status: Completed
• Start date: January 1, 2020
• Completion date: April 1, 2020