Some effects of multiple sclerosis on speech perception in noise: Preliminary findings

J Rehabil Res Dev. 2006 Jan-Feb;43(1):91-8. doi: 10.1682/jrrd.2004.09.0113.

Abstract

The present investigation examined speech perception in noise of adults with and without multiple sclerosis (MS). Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) sentences were presented at a constant level of 65 dBA L(eq) (equivalent continuous noise level [4 dB exchange rate]) from a loudspeaker located at 0-degree horizontal azimuth and 1.2 m from the study participant. Uncorrelated multitalker babble was presented from four loudspeakers positioned at 45-, 135-, 225-, and 315-degree azimuths and 1.7 m from the study participant. The starting presentation level for the babble was 55 dBA L(eq). The level of the babble was increased systematically in 1 dB steps until the subject obtained 0% key words correct on the IEEE sentences. Results revealed a significant difference in speech perception between the two groups at nine signal-to-noise ratios. Some clinical implications of these results are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Audiometry
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Female
  • Hearing Disorders / diagnosis
  • Hearing Disorders / epidemiology
  • Hearing Disorders / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Sclerosis / complications*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / diagnosis
  • Noise*
  • Prognosis
  • Reference Values
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Speech Perception*
  • United States
  • United States Department of Veterans Affairs