Audio-Vestibular Findings in Young Regular and Non-Regular Personal Music System Users.

Abstract

Background: Younger adults frequently utilize personal music systems (PMSs) for extended periods for leisure. It has been reported in the literature that hearing abilities are affected in such individuals. However, its effect on auditory processing abilities and the vestibular system remains unclear. Hence, the present study was carried out to investigate the audiological and vestibular functioning in young adults who use PMSs regularly.

Methods: Forty participants between 18 and 25 years of age were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 included 20 regular PMSs users from 2 to 3 years, and group 2 comprised 20 participants who were non-regular PMSs users. Detailed audiological evaluations were carried out on 15 participants in each group, and vestibular evaluations were carried out on all the participants.

Results: It was observed that the extended high-frequency hearing thresholds and otoacoustic emissions were affected in the regular PMSs users. The gap in noise test and vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing revealed that temporal resolution abilities and vestibular system functioning are also compromised among regular PMS users.

Conclusion: Thus, this study highlights the subtle vestibular and auditory impairments that PMS may produce in young adults, as well as the significance of a battery of tests to detect them.