Emotional and Cognitive Effects of Simulated Temporary Hearing Deficit with Healthy Adults

Background/Objectives: Accumulation of cerumen (earwax) in the auditory canal is a common condition, particularly in children and older adults, and often causes temporary hearing loss. While chronic hearing loss is known to affect mood and cognition, little is known about the psychological impact of short-term auditory deprivation. This pilot study aimed to examine the emotional and cognitive effects of simulated temporary hearing loss. Methods: Thirty healthy adults (16 females, aged 18-60) participated. Temporary hearing loss was simulated by placing earplugs in both ears for two hours. Participants completed four tests, assessing anxiety, mood, and attention at three time points: before wearing earplugs, during the blocked condition, and after earplug removal. Results: Participants showed a significant increase in state anxiety and a decrease in mood during the earplug condition. Interestingly, visual attention performance improved while hearing was obstructed and remained elevated even after earplug removal. Conclusions: Short-term simulated hearing loss produces measurable emotional and cognitive changes, including increased anxiety but enhanced visual attention. Clinicians should consider these effects when assessing patients with temporary hearing obstruction, such as those with cerumen impaction. The results carry implications for the broader population wearing earplugs on a temporary basis including musicians, construction employees, and, in general, people working in noisy environments.