Investigation of the relationship between hyperacusis and auditory processing difficulties in individuals with normal hearing
European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, vol.281, no.1, pp.469-477, 2024 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 281 Issue: 1
- Publication Date: 2024
- Doi Number: 10.1007/s00405-023-08269-2
- Journal Name: European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Veterinary Science Database
- Page Numbers: pp.469-477
- Keywords: Auditory processing difficulties, Auditory processing disorders, Hyperacusis, Khalfa Hyperacusis Questionnaire, UCAPI
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hyperacusis and auditory processing (listening) difficulties (APDiff) in normal-hearing young adults and to explore the relationship between these two conditions. Methods: A total of 333 participants aged 18–24 underwent pure-tone audiometry tests and completed the Khalfa Hyperacusis Questionnaire (KHQ) and the University of Cincinnati Auditory Processing Inventory (UCAPI) online. Results: Hyperacusis was identified in 26.43% of participants, and APDiff in 36.04%. A strong, positive correlation was found between KHQ and UCAPI scores (r = 0.603, p < 0.001). Logistic regression models indicated that hyperacusis significantly increased the likelihood of having APDiff (OR 7.688, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Despite the high prevalence of hyperacusis and APDiff in young adults, few seek help from audiology clinics. Our findings highlight a significant link between hyperacusis and APDiff, emphasizing the need for screening protocols for auditory processing skills in young adults due to these conditions’ potential social and academic impacts.