According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 1,5-billion people worldwide live with some level of hearing loss. In many instances, this is a consequence of ageing, with 30% of people over 60 years of age having hearing loss. However, WHO says that 50% of hearing loss can be prevented through public health measures.
One major reason for hearing loss is prolonged or repeated exposure to loud sounds. Usage of headphones or earphones via smartphones is a significant contributor to hearing loss worldwide. TCL explores how this trend affects our health as well as the steps you can take to protect your hearing.
According to scientists and medical health practitioners, hearing loss can take place when you’re repeatedly exposed to sounds played at high volumes, typically over 85 decibels (dB). Loud noises (above 110 dB) such as explosions can cause near-instant damage to your hearing.
Early symptoms of hearing loss may include difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, a sensation of ringing in your ears (tinnitus), and needing to increase the volume on devices. Recognising these signs early and taking action is crucial to mitigating further damage.
Where headphones and earphones come in
Many of us have grown attached to our smartphones and PCs. We may spend several hours a day with our headphones or earphones on as we talk to friends and colleagues, listen to music or podcasts and watch movies.
Headphones and eyephones can often be turned up to dangerous levels of 90db and above, which can be harmful used constantly.
This is one of the major reason that teenagers and young adults in particular are particularly at risk of hearing damage from smartphones. They are more likely to use earphones frequently, often unaware of the risks associated with high-volume listening. Loss of hearing from earphone use can be gradual, making it hard to detect early.
Here are some ways you can safeguard your ears:
- Understand noise levels – It’s important to understand how loud is too loud for the good of your ears. Android apps like Sound Decibel Meter can help you test noise levels around you to understand how noisy your environment is.
- Keep the volume down – Listening to audio at high volumes is one of the most common ways people harm their hearing over time. Don’t turn your earbuds or headphones above 50% of their maximum volume. Also be careful when holding your phone near your ear while the loudspeaker is in use.
- Use noise-cancelling headphones – One of the reasons people turn the volume up is because they can’t hear their music or podcast over the noise of their surrounding environment. If you work in a noisy office or can’t hear your own tunes above the music playing across your gym’s speakers, consider investing in some noise-cancelling headphones. They can reduce the external noise that reaches your ears, so you can keep the volume down.
- Wear earplugs in loud environments – If you are frequently exposed to loud environments, such as factories with heavy machinery or construction sites, invest in some earplugs or earmuffs. They are small, affordable and can help you to protect your hearing over time.
- Keep your distance from loud noise – The further you are from a loud noise source, the better for your ears. If you’re at a fireworks display, for example, standing a few hundred metres back will allow you to get a good view at a safe noise level. If you’re in a noisy environment, such as a concert or club, step outside for a few minutes every hour to give your ears a rest.
- Seek immediate medical help – If you notice any signs of hearing loss, like ringing in your ears or difficulty understanding conversations, get it checked out by a doctor. They can give you advice about protecting your hearing. In some cases, the problem might be an ear infection that can be easily treated with antibiotics.