Powerful Physical Therapy

Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss With Portable Music Devices

5 February 2015 by Clifford Ramos

If you are  a music lover, you likely use your portable music player frequently. However, prolonged listening to portable music players can lead to noise-induced hearing loss. Noise-induced Hearing Loss occurs when the tiny sensory cells of the inner ear get damaged. 

Though portable music players have been around for years, hearing loss results from the volume of songs they can hold now. Old portable devices could only play one tape at a time. Here are some ways you can avoid noise-induced hearing loss while listening to music with headphones. 

Set The Right Volume

One cause of hearing loss is high volume. Audio devices should be adjusted to a comfortable level that will not be hard on ears. Keep the volume below 85 decibels or 60%. A setting over 85 decibels will more likely damage your hearing.

Ask a person in the same room if they can hear the music from the headphones. The volume is too loud if another person can hear the music. Never turn music at maximum volume for more than five minutes.

Give the Ears a Break

The ears need a break from headphones. You increase your risk of hearing loss the longer you listen. Experts suggest the 60/60 rule. Listen for 60 minutes intervals at 60% volume.

Use Headphones Instead of Ear Buds

Ear buds typically come with Mp3 players. However, ear buds are not effective for reducing background noise and the sound goes directly into your ear. Ear buds work for lower volumes, but if you need a slightly higher volume, use headphones. Headphones keep the sound further from your ear.

Buy Noise-Canceling Headphones

Background noise will tempt you to turn up the volume. Noise-canceling headphones help reduce background noise. Noise-canceling headphones apply active noise control to eliminate low-frequency. They are typically more expensive , but worth the money if you want to protect your hearing.

Get Your Hearing Tested

Get your hearing tested periodically especially if you are in a profession that requires constant use of headphones. Hearing loss happens gradually so you may exhibit no signs. Signs of hearing loss to look for include muffled sounds, trouble hearing what people say, ear pain, itching, vertigo, and ringing in the ear (tinnitus). Test you hearing with the CDs that come with headphones used to evaluate loudspeakers.

 Whether you listen to music through headphones for enjoyment or business, these tips will help you reduce the risk of hearing loss. If you notice a change in your hearing, see a doctor as soon as possible. You may need a hearing aid. For more help, contact a company like Waters ENT Sinus & Allergy.

Share