The Jakobson effect describes the improved perception of speech sounds through brief focusing on their acoustic characteristics, similar to phonemic "listening." It occurs when listeners actively pay attention to certain frequency ranges and thus recognize nuances in consonants and vowels more clearly. This effect is used in speech therapy to treat articulation weaknesses. Audiological training programs enhance the effect through targeted practice of individual phonemes. Neurophysiological measurements show increased cortical activity in auditory areas during the Jakobson effect.

The Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction is an acute inflammatory reaction following the death of bacteria, which can rarely occur in the inner ear when ototoxic antibiotics kill bacteria in the cochlea. This releases toxins that temporarily exacerbate dizziness, tinnitus, and hearing loss. The reaction usually begins a few hours after the start of therapy and subsides within 24–48 hours. Steroids and antioxidants are administered symptomatically to reduce inflammation and oxidative damage. It is important to be aware of this effect so as not to confuse iatrogenic damage with treatment failure.

The Jensen test is a speech intelligibility test in which sentences or words are presented at different signal-to-noise ratios. It measures the minimum ratios at which speech can still be understood and quantifies hearing performance in realistic noise situations. The results help to tailor hearing aid programs to everyday conditions. Test variants use stationary noise or multi-speaker scenarios. The Jensen Test is well established in pediatric audiology and adult rehabilitation.

The jet noise effect describes the broad frequency spectrum and high sound pressure levels generated by jet engines. Particularly low and mid-range frequencies travel long distances and can cause sleep disturbances and hearing stress in the vicinity of busy airports. Sound measurements determine emission levels in order to optimize noise barriers and flight paths. Low-noise engine technologies and operating time regulations are used as preventive measures. Long-term studies document the effects on the hearing and quality of life of residents.

Itching in the ear canal is a common symptom of dry skin, eczema, or allergic reactions to ear molds. It can lead to scratches and secondary infections if patients use cotton swabs or their fingers to scratch the area. Treatment includes moisturizing ear drops, corticosteroid ointments, and adjustment of the otoplastic materials. In cases of chronic itching, a dermatological examination is recommended. Audiologists provide advice on skin care and hygienic cleaning of hearing aids.

A young ear refers to the ear of a child or adolescent that is still developing anatomically and functionally. The ear canal, eardrum thickness, and bone structure differ from those of adults and influence acoustic measurements. Audiological tests and hearing aid fittings must be calibrated according to age. Pediatric audiology programs take into account language development stages and compliance. Long-term monitoring ensures that hearing loss diagnoses are detected and treated early.

Jugular sinus pressure in the mastoid region can be used to indirectly assess intracranial and labyrinthine pressure via the Valsalva maneuver or pressure probes. It influences venous drainage of the inner ear and can lead to tinnitus or vertigo when pressure is elevated. Clinically, it is tested when venous malformations or hydrocephalus are suspected. Imaging and Doppler ultrasound complement the pressure measurement. Therapeutically, relief measures such as diuretics or surgical shunts may be indicated.

The just-noticeable difference is the smallest perceptible change in an acoustic stimulus, such as frequency or volume, that a listener can detect. It is determined psychoacoustically by presenting stimuli with minimal differences. JND values vary with frequency, base level, and individual hearing condition. They are important for filter design and compression parameters in hearing aids. Small JNDs enable fine sound gradations, while large JNDs can limit speech comprehension.