Kuulmiskünnini

Kuulmiskünnini refers to the lowest sound intensity that a person can perceive. It is the threshold at which a sound becomes audible. This threshold is not fixed and can vary significantly between individuals and even for the same individual at different times. Factors influencing kuulmiskünnini include age, exposure to loud noises, and overall auditory health.

The standard unit for measuring sound intensity is the decibel (dB). Kuulmiskünnini is typically measured in dB SPL (sound pressure level). For a young, healthy individual with normal hearing, the kuulmiskünnini is approximately 0 dB SPL at frequencies between 1,000 and 5,000 Hz. At lower and higher frequencies, the kuulmiskünnini tends to be higher, meaning a louder sound is required to be heard.

Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, often causes an elevation in the kuulmiskünnini, especially at higher frequencies. Similarly, prolonged exposure to noise can lead to noise-induced hearing loss, which also raises the kuulmiskünnini. Audiologists use various tests to determine an individual's kuulmiskünnini across a range of frequencies as part of a comprehensive hearing evaluation. Understanding one's kuulmiskünnini is crucial for diagnosing hearing impairments and managing auditory health.