How Earphones Contribute to Hearing Damage

Today I want to discuss something that most of us probably don't give much thought to—the potential damage that earphones can do to our hearing. I know we all love jamming out to our favourite tunes and podcasts with our earphones in, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks.

First of all, let's address the issue of volume. How many of us crank up the volume on our earphones to drown out background noise or feel the bass in our music? I know I'm guilty of doing this myself. But blasting your earphones at high volumes for extended periods can cause irreversible damage to your hearing. Experts recommend keeping the volume at 60% or lower to reduce the risk of hearing loss.

Another factor to consider is the type of earphones you're using. While providing great sound quality and isolation, in-ear headphones can be more damaging to your hearing than over-ear headphones. This is because in-ear headphones deliver sound directly into your ear canal, increasing the intensity of the sound and potentially causing more damage.  In this article, we dive into the science behind hearing damage caused by earphones and explore practical steps you can take to protect your hearing.

Understanding the Science of Hearing Damage from Earphones:

When we use earphones, sound waves are transmitted directly into the ear canal. Loud sounds over prolonged periods can damage the tiny hair cells in the inner ear, also known as stereocilia. These hair cells are critical for sending sound signals to the brain. Unfortunately, once these cells are damaged, they cannot regenerate, resulting in permanent hearing loss.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL):

Frequent use of earphones, especially at high volumes, can lead to Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that over one billion young adults are at risk of hearing damage due to unsafe listening practices. The primary culprits? High-volume settings and long listening durations. Earphones, particularly in-ear models, place sound directly into the ear canal, amplifying sound intensity and increasing the risk of long-term hearing impairment.

Decibel Levels and Hearing Safety:

Sound is measured in decibels (dB), and prolonged exposure to levels above 85 dB is deemed unsafe. To put this in perspective, a whisper registers around 30 dB, while normal conversation reaches about 60 dB. Many earphones, when set to maximum volume, can produce sound levels upwards of 100 dB or more. Listening to music at such high levels can result in irreversible damage to the delicate structures within the ear.

How Frequent Earphone Use Impacts Different Parts of the Ear:

Earphone usage not only affects hearing but it also impacts several components of our auditory system.

Outer Ear Canal Irritation:

Constant use of earphones can block airflow, creating a warm, humid environment ideal for bacterial growth. This can result in ear infections and discomfort.

Middle Ear Pressure Imbalance:

Loud noises increase pressure within the ear, which can impair the natural functioning of the middle ear.

Inner Ear Hair Cell Damage:

Loud sounds over long periods damage the stereocilia, essential for detecting sound and transmitting it to the brain. Once damaged, these cells cannot regenerate, leading to permanent hearing loss.

Signs of Earphone-Related Hearing Damage:

Many people do not notice the signs of hearing damage until the loss has become irreversible. Early symptoms of earphone-induced hearing damage include:

Tinnitus:

A ringing or buzzing sound in the ear even in the absence of external sound.

Difficulty Understanding Speech:

Particularly in noisy environments, affected individuals may find it challenging to distinguish speech.

Muffled Sound Perception:

Sounds may seem distant or less sharp as if listening through a filter.

Ear Pain or Discomfort:

This could be due to infections or physical discomfort from frequent earphone use.

Early detection of these symptoms and making adjustments to listening habits can prevent further hearing degradation.

Factors That Exacerbate Hearing Damage from Earphones

Volume Settings:

Listening to music at high volumes is the leading cause of earphone-induced hearing damage. A general rule of thumb is the 60/60 rule: listen at no more than 60% volume for no longer than 60 minutes at a time. This can help reduce the risk of NIHL.

Type of Earphones:

In-ear earphones deliver sound directly into the ear canal, which amplifies sound intensity compared to over-ear headphones. In-ear models often pose a higher risk as they create a tighter seal, trapping sound waves close to the eardrum. For safer options, consider noise-cancelling headphones that allow you to listen at lower volumes in noisy environments.

Duration of Use:

The longer you use earphones, the higher the risk of hearing loss. Experts recommend taking a break every 60 minutes to let your ears rest.

Noise Environment:

Listening to music or audio at high volumes in loud environments, such as public transport or gyms, can strain the ear and amplify sound beyond safe levels. Noise-cancelling headphones are recommended to reduce the need for high volumes.

Steps to Protect Your Hearing:

Preventing hearing loss involves a few practical adjustments to your earphone usage.

Follow the 60/60 Rule:

Aim to listen at a maximum of 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.

Use Noise-Canceling Headphones:

Noise-cancelling technology reduces the need for high volume by filtering out ambient sounds. Investing in a quality pair can reduce sound exposure without compromising audio quality.

Take Regular Listening Breaks:

Give your ears a rest by taking short breaks between listening sessions. Allowing time for recovery can help prevent permanent damage.

Monitor Decibel Levels:

Many smartphones and audio devices offer features that monitor sound exposure and notify you when you’ve reached dangerous listening levels.

Choose Over-Ear Headphones:

Opting for over-ear headphones instead of in-ear models reduces direct sound exposure and minimizes the risk of infection from prolonged earphone use.

Consider Hearing Protection Apps:

Some apps can alert you when you’re exposed to potentially harmful sound levels, helping you to manage safe listening habits.

Additional Hearing Care Tips:

In addition to managing earphone use, there are other ways to promote hearing health.

Regular Hearing Check-ups:

Schedule hearing tests with a qualified audiologist, especially if you experience early symptoms of hearing loss.

Ear Hygiene:

Clean your earphones regularly to avoid bacterial infections, and avoid inserting objects deep into the ear.

Mindful Use in Noisy Places:

Avoid turning up the volume in loud environments. Opt for noise-cancelling headphones instead. While earphones are a convenient way to enjoy music, podcasts, and calls, their impact on hearing health can be profound if not used mindfully. While earphones are a convenient and enjoyable way to listen to music, it's important to be mindful of the potential risks to your hearing. So next time you're rocking out with your earphones in, remember to keep the volume at a safe level and give your ears a break now and then. Your future self will thank you for it.