What term describes a permanent worsening of hearing ability?

The term that describes a permanent worsening of hearing ability is "permanent threshold shift." This term specifically refers to a lasting change in the threshold of hearing, indicating that a person requires a higher sound level to hear tones or sounds compared to their previous hearing capability. It underscores the idea that any deterioration in hearing ability is not recoverable, distinguishing it from temporary changes in hearing which might resolve over time.

In audiology, a permanent threshold shift is often used in the context of noise-induced hearing loss or damage from various harmful exposures, thereby indicating significant and lasting changes in auditory function. Understanding this term is essential for audiology health professionals, as it helps assess the degree of hearing impairment and informs treatment and rehabilitation decisions for affected individuals.

Other terms, while they may suggest ongoing issues with hearing, do not inherently indicate that the change is permanent or have the same specificity that "permanent threshold shift" conveys in clinical settings.