There are various types of hearing devices available, including in-the-canal earplugs, earbuds that sit in the external ear canal, and over-the-ear headphones. All of these devices transmit sound to the ear, offering several benefits to users. However, improper use of these devices can lead to a range of ear-related problems, Dr Jafferhusein S. Sura, Consultant ENT Surgeon, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai told Financial Express.com.
How does regular use of earbuds at high volumes affect your hearing?
The WHO guidelines have laid out the recommended number of MAXIMUM hours of exposure to various levels of sound in order to prevent hearing loss. The decibel level of normal speech is 60-65db. The average level of personal devices is 80-85db. You should be exposed to Sounds above 90db, example a lawn mower, for a maximum duration of 8 hours in a day. If the sound is above 100db, as in a nightclub, then the duration should be no more than 2 hours.
So one should not listen to loud music on the ear phones for prolonged duration. It is recommended to keep the volume of the device while using earphones, to 60% of the maximum at all timesm, Dr. Sura revealed.
What are the signs of hearing damage due to earbud usage?
Dr. Sura maintained that they will start to have ringing in the ears and may experience hearing loss. There is a possibility of sudden severe hearing loss as well if there is loud noise exposure above 110dB.
Which type of earbud is more damaging?
In the ear ones have to be used at a higher volume for better sound clarity as compared to over the ear ones, as they block out external sounds, Dr. Sura revealed.
“They also deliver sound to the ear canal which affects the ear drum directly. The silicone over the ear buds may lead to irritation of the canal skin and lead to infections as well. Overall, over the ear earphones are better,” he said.
How can you protect your ears?
If you have to use earphones for prolonged periods:
- Do not itch your ears—if you have dryness and itchiness, do not use your finger nails or any other object to scratch your ears
- Apply lubricant in the form of coconut oil—especially if you have dry skin and itchiness.
- Use Over the ear headphones whenever possible.
- If using earphones/ear buds, make sure they are clean and stored in a clean place. Wipe the rubber tips with alcohol swab regularly.
- Use them at recommended volumes only. Avoid using them at high volumes for prolonged periods.
- Give adequate rest to your ears from sounds. Take a break every hour or so to allow for auditory reset.