Chronic Noise Exposure and Its Impact on Auditory system and Cognitive Functions

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Department of Audiology, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Rehabilitation Sciences and Social Health, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Purpose:
Noise is one of the environmental pollutants that, in addition to its well-known effects on the peripheral auditory system, can also affect central auditory processing and cognitive functions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of noise on hearing and cognition in individuals exposed to noise, particularly in occupational and urban environments.
Methods:
In this review study, a search was conducted in the databases and search engines PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science for articles published between 2000 and 2025. The keywords "Noise," "Cognitive Function," "Central Auditory Processing," and "Hearing Loss" were used for the search. Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist for assessing the quality and validity of the included studies, ten research articles examining the effects of noise on hearing and cognition were selected for review.
Results:
The results of the study showed that chronic noise exposure can lead to sensorineural hearing loss, central auditory processing disorders, hidden synaptic damage )hidden auditory synaptopathy), and impairments in cognitive functions such as working memory and attention.
Conclusion:
Given the reported effects of noise on auditory and cognitive skills, the need for preventive programs, targeted screening, and rehabilitative interventions for individuals exposed to noise is among the recommendations of this study for future researchs.

Keywords

Journal of Paramedical Sciences & Rehabilitation
Volume 14, Issue 3
November 2025

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