Interrupted noise exposures: threshold shift dynamics and permanent effects

A parametric study of the reduction of threshold shift (toughening phenomena) that takes place during the course of an interrupted noise exposure is described. 266 chinchillas randomly assigned to one of 32 experimental groups were exposed to one of the following: a 400-Hz narrow-band impact noise having a center frequency of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, or 8.0 kHz and peak sound-pressure levels of 109, 115, 121, or 127 dB. The impacts were presented for 5 d, 24 h/d or for 20 d, 6 h/d. corresponding pairs of exposures had equal energy. Group mean noise effects were estimated from pure-tone threshold obtained form inferior colliculus evoked potentials and from surface preparation histology. The threshold shift (TS) toughening phenomena is shown to occur in response to all stimuli that produce a TS and at all audiometric test frequencies. The amount of toughening, which is limited to less than 35 dB, varies with noise frequency and intensity. Based on group mean data the auditory system is not protected from the permanent effects of an interrupted noise exposure as a result of the toughening effect but rather differences in permanent effects between the 5- and 20-d exposures are attributed to the spreading of the exposure energy over an extended period of time.