Are Headphones and Earbuds Bad For Your Health?

Over the years, more people have become quite addicted to listening to music, podcasts and other audio-visual content. Even worse is the obsession with pushing earbuds far up the ear canal in hopes of getting the best auditory experience. Others who use headphones also have a habit of turning up the volume to dangerously high decibels.

The debate about earbuds and headphones continues to rage on. However, it’s necessary to establish whether both can be a risk to your hearing health, and this primarily depends on your usage.

How Noise Causes Hearing Loss

Unlike other body parts that have the natural ability to heal on their own and return to their normal functions, inner ear damage works differently. Any deterioration of the inner ear reduces function and may contribute to hearing loss over time.

This auditory organ comprises the outer, middle and inner ear. All three work together to hear, process and interpret sounds. Regarding hearing loss, the tiny hair cells contained in the cochlea are responsible for carrying sound messages to the brain.

However, when these tiny hair cells are continually exposed to loud sounds, they begin to lose their vigor and gradual hearing loss sets in. This is where earbuds and headphones come into the picture. However, the former seems to have a higher risk of causing hearing loss.

This is because earbuds are rather designed to fit into the ear canal and, by their position, transmit sounds closer to the eardrum. Moreover, according to audiologists, earbuds tend to increase sounds by as much as nine decibels. Indeed, that is more than enough reason to cause problems for the ear.

The Right Way to Use Earbuds and Headphones

According to medical research, using your earbuds and headphones the correct way can reduce the risks of experiencing noise-induced hearing loss. First of all, always make a deliberate effort to listen to music or play a movie at the correct volume. Fortunately, mobile device manufacturers make it mandatory to indicate a warning when adjusting volumes to high levels.

Secondly, it is recommended to use the 60/60 rule. This means, listen to audio through earbuds or headphones at no more than 60% of the volume. Furthermore, make an effort to limit your earbud listening time to 60 minutes and no more than that at a sitting. This strategy allows you to take a break, while your inner ear also benefits from the pause.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to determine if the volume set for your earphone or earbuds is too loud. In this case, you might need someone to sit close to you to check if they can hear the sounds being played from the earbuds or headphones.

Is The Headphone Better Than the Earbuds?

When you put both devices head-to-head, the headphone seems to be a better option than earbuds. This is because headphones go over the head and are not necessarily put into the ears. Just by their design and wearing style, the sound is slightly limited. However, be mindful of the volume you set for the headphone. They can equally lead to noise-induced hearing loss if you fail to apply the necessary precautions.

On the other hand, earbuds have a higher risk of causing noise-induced hearing loss. By their design, they fit snugly into the ear canal and appear to be the type most people love. Moreover, with the influx of cordless types, earbud usage tends to be more common among millennials and the younger generation.

The younger generation often sees headphones as retro and explains why many do not seem to like them much. However, headphones are making a comeback, especially as more people get educated on the benefits of opting for them over earbuds. Please take note that even with headphones, there are certain requirements. It would be better to opt for noise-canceling types. These ones enhance the listening experience without interruptions that cause you to turn up the volume.

Why Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Is Becoming More Common in Young Adults

A news report by the Chicago Tribune indicated an increasing case of noise-induced hearing in the younger generation. It indicated that young adults from age 20 are increasingly going to the audiologist and getting diagnosed with early-stage hearing loss. The report also attributed it to the unhealthy long periods of earbud usage, among others. Indeed, this makes it imperative for people to become more proactive in taking their hearing health seriously.

If you’re unsure about your ear health, perhaps it is time to get them checked out. Learn more about Kirsch Audiology or call us today at 310-586-5533 to book an appointment.