Can Too Much Noise Harm Your Ears? Expert Helps Us Understand

Headphones, or earbuds have become a common personal item in recent years. With technological advancement, easy availability, and affordable rates, the usage of earbuds has increased, especially among the younger population. The COVID-19 pandemic has further given a boost to these earbuds due to an increase in remote work culture, online education, and entertainment. The increase in the OTT streaming services for video and audio has further increased the usage. Online gaming is yet another reason why people get exposed to very loud noises, directly in their ears. Dr Darshil Vaishnav, Consultant Laryngologist and ENT Surgeon, Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara, Gujarat shared how excessive noise exposure can lead to long-term gearing damage.

How Excessive Noise Can Lead To Long Term Hearing Damage

Here are the reasons why excessive noise can lead to long-term hearing loss:

Damage To The Hair Cells

Dr Darshil said certain professionals like musicians are exposed to routine usage of earbuds and headphones. Sometimes the music is so loud that it may reach up to 100-110dB, which is equivalent to a chainsaw being operated close to your ear. The ear has microscopic cells all the hair cells that convert found energy to electrical impulses. Once these cells are damaged, it may cause permanent hearing loss.

Temporary Hearing Fatigue

According to Dr Darshil, episodic exposure to loud noise can cause hearing fatigue that results in decreased sensitivity of hearing. When such exposure occurs frequently, temporary fatigue may progress to permanent hearing loss.

Tinnitus

Exposure to loud noises can also lead to ringing sounds in the ear. This is a sign of damage to the hair cells. In many cases, tinnitus is permanent, with often no treatment available.

Ear Infections And Hygiene

Earbuds block the ear canal, causing trapping of moisture and hampering the flow of wax. This increases the chances of ear canal infections. Sharing earbuds without proper cleaning would then cause the transfer of bacteria and fungi from one person to another.

Don't Miss: Older Adult Mental Health: 5 Festival Activities to Help Seniors Stay Happy, As Per Expert

How To Protect Your Hearing?

Here are a few measures you can take to protect your ears:

Follow The 60-60 Rule

Experts recommend the usage of earbuds at 60% volume, for 60 mins only. This should be followed by a 30-minute hearing break. If your work mandates longer hours of usage, then earbuds may be used in a single ear, while giving rest to the opposite ear.

Take Hearing Breaks

Dr Darshil recommends taking breaks actively to make sure your ears are not overburdened.

Use Over-The-Head Headphones

These ensure even distribution of the noise in the ear. They even increase the distance from the eardrum, and this delivers less energy.

Use Noise-Cancelling Earphones

Noise-cancelling earphones cut down background noise. As the background noise decreases, it is easier to listen to the sound and this better clarity is obtained at a lesser volume.

Get Regular Hearing Checkup

Be aware of your conditions. If you feel any complaints, then it is better to consult an ENT surgeon.

Don't Miss: 7 Early Warning Signs of Blocked Heart Veins, According to a Cardiologist

Follow the measures to maintain your ear health.

Image Courtesy: Freepik