Análise da autopercepção de esforço auditivo, fadiga, saúde mental e qualidade do sono em estudantes com e sem alteração do processamento auditivo

Abstract

Introduction: Central Auditory Processing Disorder is associated with fatigue, listening effort, and mental health, affecting quality of life. Listening effort intensifies in noisy environments, while deficits in mental health and sleep quality exacerbate these challenges. Objective: To analyze the relationship between auditory processing disorders, listening effort, fatigue, mental health, and sleep quality. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 34 speech-language pathology students. Tests applied included pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, immittance testing, and behavioral auditory processing assessments, such as the Random Gap Detection Test, Frequency Pattern Test, Dichotic Digit Test, and the Portuguese Sentence List in silence and noise. Self-perception scales of mental health, fatigue, listening effort, and sleep quality were also used, alongside questionnaires about the academic environment. Results: Participants with auditory processing disorders exhibited greater listening effort (median of 6.5 in the altered group vs. 5.0 in the non-altered group, p<0.001) and lower mental health perception (median of 6.0 vs. 7.0, p=0.035). No significant differences in sleep quality were found between the groups (p=0.812). Significant correlations were observed between mental health and fatigue (p=0.030) and between initial fatigue and listening effort (p=0.013). Conclusion: Altered auditory processing is associated with increased listening effort, fatigue, and lower mental health perception