Contribution of ambient noise and hyperbaric atmosphere to olfactory and gustatory function.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Taste and smell are important for occupational performance and quality of life. Previous studies suggested that the function of these senses might be influenced by ambient pressure and noise. This knowledge would be helpful for divers, submarine crews, or mine workers. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of noise and hyperbaric pressure on olfactory and gustatory functions.

Methods

This prospective controlled study included 16 healthy male divers. Inside a hyperbaric chamber, participants performed olfactory and gustatory function tests at sea level pressure and at 2 bar pressure. The olfaction threshold, and the discrimination and identification of odorants were measured with validated ´Sniffin sticks´. Taste identification and the gustation thre

SUBMITTER: Fischer HG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7553350 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature