Headphones and earbuds are a common part of many people’s lives. They allow us to listen to music, podcasts, and audiobooks on the go, and they can be a great way to block out background noise. However, there is some evidence that headphones and earbuds can damage the ears.
One of the most common ways that headphones and earbuds can damage the ears is by causing noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). NIHL is a type of hearing loss that is caused by exposure to loud noises. When you listen to music or other audio at a high volume, the sound waves can damage the delicate cells in the inner ear. This damage can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus (a ringing in the ears), and other hearing problems.
The risk of NIHL is increased by the following factors:
* The volume of the sound. The louder the sound, the greater the risk of damage.
* The length of time you are exposed to the sound. The longer you are exposed to loud sound, the greater the risk of damage.
* The type of headphones or earbuds you use. Headphones that fit snugly in the ear canal can create a seal that blocks out background noise and increases the volume of the sound. This can increase the risk of NIHL.
In addition to NIHL, headphones and earbuds can also cause other ear problems, such as:
* Earwax buildup. Headphones and earbuds can block the ear canal and prevent earwax from draining properly. This can lead to a buildup of earwax, which can cause pain, hearing loss, and infection.
* Ear infections. Headphones and earbuds can introduce bacteria into the ear canal, which can lead to an infection.
* Skin irritation. The materials used to make headphones and earbuds can irritate the skin of the ear canal. This can cause itching, redness, and pain.
If you are concerned about the potential risks of headphones and earbuds, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of damage:
* Keep the volume down. The louder the sound, the greater the risk of damage.
* Limit your listening time. The longer you are exposed to loud sound, the greater the risk of damage.
* Clean your headphones or earbuds regularly. This will help to prevent the buildup of earwax and bacteria.
* If you experience any pain, hearing loss, or other ear problems, see a doctor right away.
Written by profT for Naijatipsland.com
Headphones usually block my hears within a couple of hours so I don’t like using it. I still prefer earbuds