Temporary threshold shift
Definition of temporary threshold shift
A temporary threshold shift is a temporary shift in the auditory threshold. It may occur suddenly after exposure to a high level of noise, a situation in which most people experience reduced hearing. A temporary threshold shift results in temporary hearing loss.
People who experience a temporary threshold shift may often also experience temporary tinnitus.
Causes of temporary threshold shift
A temporary threshold shift which results in a temporary hearing loss is normally caused by exposure to intense and/or loud sounds or noise levels for a shorter or longer time. This could be e.g. an explosion or a concert.
Treatment of temporary threshold shift
If you experience a temporary threshold shift, it is recommended that you spend some time in a quiet place and not expose yourself to loud sounds.
How long does temporary threshold shift last?
The recovery time for a temporary threshold shift varies. It may take only a few hours for the symptoms to subside but it can also last for days. If your hearing does not recover within a few days, you should seek medical advice.
Permanent threshold shift
The opposite of a temporary threshold shift is a permanent threshold shift. A permanent threshold shift is when the ability to hear is reduced permanently, which causes a permanent hearing loss. A professional hearing test can measure the level of the threshold shift and the results can be seen on an audiogram.