Self-Reported Non-Auditory Effects of High Sound Pressure Levels Exposure in Academic Musicians in Uruguay

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Music Performance Science
• Auditory Science

Background:

• High sound pressure levels can cause effects beyond hearing loss.
• This study investigates self-reported non-auditory effects in academic musicians.
• 306 musicians in Uruguay participated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the range and prevalence of self-reported non-auditory effects experienced by academic musicians.
• To analyze these effects based on gender, age, and musical role (singer/instrumentalist).

Main Methods:

• Utilized a specially designed anamnesis form for participant interviews.
• Collected and anonymized data for processing.
• Employed direct data processing and Principal Component Analysis (PCA).

Main Results:

• A majority of participants reported multiple non-auditory effects.
• Prevalent effects included muscle contractures, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and noise sensitivity.
• Specific symptom profiles emerged based on gender and instrument played.

Conclusions:

• Muscle contractures, fatigue, sleep issues, and noise sensitivity are common among musicians exposed to high sound pressure levels.
• Gender-specific patterns were observed, with women reporting higher rates of muscle contracture and fatigue, and men reporting tinnitus and irritability.
• Instrument-specific "effects profiles" were identified, such as muscle contracture and tinnitus in woodwind players and a broader range of symptoms in soprano singers.