Understanding Earphone Usage
Earphones have undergone a remarkable evolution from their humble beginnings as bulky, single-ear pieces used by telephone operators in the late 19th century. The advent of portable music players like the Sony Walkman in 1979 and the iPod in 2001 fueled the demand for compact, lightweight earphones suitable for on-the-go listening. This paved the way for the modern earbud design that became ubiquitous among music lovers and smartphone users alike. Today, earphones have become an indispensable accessory, with global sales exceeding 514 million units in 2020 alone. Their popularity cuts across age groups, with 75% of teenagers and 64% of adults in the U.S. using earphones or headphones. The rise of wireless Bluetooth technology has further propelled earphone adoption, allowing users to enjoy an untethered audio experience seamlessly integrated into their daily lives.
Side-effects of using earphones for longer hours
Earphones have become an integral part of our daily lives, whether we’re commuting, working out, or simply enjoying our favorite tunes. However, prolonged use of earphones can lead to a range of health issues that many of us might not be aware of. From hearing loss to ear infections, the side effects of using earphones for extended periods can be quite serious. In this article, we will explore the various side effects of using earphones for longer hours and provide tips on how to mitigate these risks. So, before you plug in and tune out, take a moment to understand the potential health hazards associated with your beloved earphones.
1. Decreased Hearing Capability
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when prolonged exposure to loud music or other high-decibel sounds damages the delicate hair cells in the cochlea, leading to permanent hearing impairment. Safe volume levels are generally considered to be below 85 decibels (dB) for extended listening periods, with experts recommending keeping headphone volumes at 60% of the maximum to avoid damage. Exceeding these levels can cause both temporary and permanent threshold shifts, where hearing sensitivity is reduced, and sounds may become muffled or distorted. Early signs of hearing loss include difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments, a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus), and the need to increase the volume on electronic devices. Recognizing these symptoms early and taking preventive measures, such as using noise-cancelling headphones and taking regular breaks from loud environments, can help mitigate the risk of NIHL.
What Research Says?
- Study shows that using earphones too much can cause hearing loss. One study says if you listen to sounds over 110 dB for more than an hour each day, it can hurt your hearing. The study advises using earphones for less than an hour a day at softer volumes to protect your ears. Another study agrees, noting that long-term noise from earphones can lead to hearing problems. These might get better if you stop using earphones for six months.
- Hearing tests show how earphones affect our ears. One study with college students found that those who used earphones for over an hour each day at loud volumes had some hearing loss. This loss was in the 0.5 to 8 kHz range. Another study saw that 17.6% of regular earphone users at colleges had hearing loss, while only 7.4% of others did. The hearing loss was usually mild and affected the higher sounds.
- Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a big problem linked to using personal music players and earphones. A review of studies showed that being around loud sounds for too long is a main cause of NIHL, especially in teens and young adults. Another research found that earphones might make it worse when you listen to music loudly and often. This could mean earphones are more harmful than regular speakers when the noise is just as loud.
2. Induces Ear Infections
Earphones can become a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of ear infections if not properly maintained. The warm, moist environment inside the ear canal, coupled with the potential for earphones to trap moisture and earwax, creates ideal conditions for bacterial growth. This buildup of bacteria can then be introduced directly into the ear, leading to outer ear infections (otitis externa) or even middle ear infections if the bacteria penetrates further. To prevent such infections, it is crucial to practice proper earphone hygiene by regularly cleaning the earbuds with a soft, damp cloth or alcohol wipes, avoiding sharing earphones, and allowing ears to dry completely before use. Additionally, replacing foam or silicone tips periodically and storing earphones in a clean, dry case can help minimize bacterial transfer and moisture accumulation.
What Research Says?
- Many studies show that ear infections are common in people who use earphones. One study in Saudi Arabia found a clear link between using earphones for a long time and getting ear infections. This was especially true for young women and students who used earphones for over two hours each day. Also, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a study in Malaysia found that 31% of patients with earwax blockage had a fungal ear infection because they used earphones too much.
- Earphones can lead to ear infections in several ways. One main reason is how they affect the cleanliness of our ears. Earphones can trap dampness and make your ears warm, which helps bacteria and fungi grow. A study in Kirkuk City showed that using earphones a lot can lead to bacteria building up. This is especially true for bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which often cause ear infections. Another research pointed out that earphones can carry germs, especially when different people use the same pair.
- Using earphones for too long can lead to hearing loss. Loud sounds over time can harm the tiny hair cells in your ears. This causes noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Young people, like teens and young adults, are especially at risk. Studies show many in this age group already show signs of hearing damage. Tests on college students who use earphones for over an hour a day found some hearing loss at high frequencies.
3. Results in Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ears that are not caused by an external sound source, often resulting from prolonged earphone use at high volumes. This condition occurs when the delicate hair cells in the inner ear are damaged, leading to abnormal neural activity that the brain interprets as sound. Tinnitus can significantly impact daily life, disrupting sleep, impairing concentration, and causing stress or anxiety, which can further exacerbate the symptoms. Managing tinnitus involves several strategies, such as reducing exposure to loud noises, using white noise machines or apps to mask the ringing, practicing relaxation techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing, and seeking professional help from audiologists or ENT specialists for personalized treatment plans. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration can help mitigate the effects of tinnitus and improve overall well-being.
What Research Says?
- Study looked at how using earphones might link to tinnitus. One study used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. It found that people who use earphones are 1.27 times more likely to get tinnitus than those who don’t. In fact, 22.9% of people using earphones said they had symptoms of tinnitus. This shows a strong link between using earphones and getting tinnitus.
- Exposure to loud sounds, at work or from personal devices like earbuds, can cause tinnitus. A study of people who work in workshops showed that many have tinnitus (54%) and hearing loss from noise (21.6%). Using earbuds a lot adds to the risk of both hearing problems.
- Listening to loud music on personal sound systems can cause ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus. A study showed that 33% of medical students who use these devices have tinnitus. It found that both how long and how loud they listen to music matters. Loud music seems to be a big reason for getting tinnitus.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) did a review. It looked at how environmental noise, like from personal listening devices, affects hearing loss and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). The review showed that listening to loud music for a long time through these devices can lead to hearing loss. But it wasn’t as clear if this causes tinnitus. More research is needed to understand this better.
4. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
Using earphones for extended periods can lead to Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL), a condition resulting from prolonged exposure to high decibel levels that damage the delicate hair cells in the cochlea. These hair cells are crucial for converting sound waves into electrical signals for the brain, and once damaged, they do not regenerate, leading to permanent hearing impairment. The risk of NIHL is particularly high among teens and young adults who frequently use personal listening devices at high volumes, often exceeding the safe threshold of 85 decibels. Symptoms of NIHL include difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a feeling of fullness in the ears, which can significantly impact daily life and communication.
What Research Says?
- NIHL is hearing loss caused by being around loud noise for too long. It can’t be fixed and gets worse over time. It usually starts by harming the ability to hear sounds at 3, 4, and 6 kHz. Later, it can affect more sounds. Many young people are at risk of NIHL. Studies show that about 1.1 billion young folks could get it because they listen to things too loudly.
- Studies show that earphones can lead to hearing loss in students and young adults. One study with 3000 students found that 3.2% had hearing loss. Most of them used earphones for over 6 hours a day at loud volumes. Another study showed that 60.2% of students had some hearing problems, and 86.4% had used earphones before.
- NIHL happens when the tiny hair cells in the ear get damaged. These cells help turn sound into signals that go to the brain. If you listen to loud sounds with earphones for too long, these cells can get hurt for good, and you might lose your hearing. How bad it gets depends on how loud and how long you’re around the noise. Your age, whether you’re a boy or a girl, and your genes also play a part.
- NIHL doesn’t just harm hearing. It also impacts brain health and feelings. Study shows that NIHL can hurt the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus. This can lead to trouble remembering places and more stress. The hippocampus helps us.
5. Ear Pain and Discomfort
Ear pain and discomfort are common complaints associated with prolonged use of earphones, often resulting from pressure on the outer ear, improper fit, and extended listening sessions. Poorly fitting earphones can exacerbate these issues by pressing too tightly on the ear’s cartilage or not sealing properly, leading to chafing, itchiness, and even ear infections due to trapped moisture and bacteria. To mitigate these problems, it is crucial to choose ergonomically designed earphones that come with multiple ear tip sizes, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit that does not exert excessive pressure on the ear canal. Additionally, opting for earphones made from hypoallergenic materials can help prevent skin irritation and allergic reactions, enhancing overall comfort and reducing the risk of ear pain.
What Research Says?
- Many studies show that people who often use earphones have ear problems. Research in Saudi Arabia found a link between using earphones for a long time and getting ear infections. This was especially true for young women and students who used earphones for over two hours daily. Also, a study in Kaduna showed that 17.6% of people who regularly used earphones had hearing loss. Only 7.4% of those who didn’t use them had this issue. Most of the time, the hearing loss was mild and affected both ears.
- Listening to loud sounds through earphones for too long can cause hearing loss. Studies show that more teens and young people are getting hearing problems because they often use devices to listen to music. One study of 1,000 students found that 8% who used earphones for over two hours daily had trouble hearing high-pitched sounds. This shows that how long and how loudly you listen to music with earphones is important for keeping your hearing safe.
- Using earphones too much can lead to ear infections and other problems. One study showed that 31% of people with too much earwax from using earphones got a fungal ear infection called otomycosis. Also, a report talked about a 61-year-old man who had bad ear pain and lost some hearing after he used earphones that were dirty with a cleaning solution.
6. Causes Anxiety and Depression
Using earphones for prolonged periods has been linked to increased rates of anxiety and depression, even when hearing thresholds remain within normal ranges. Earphone users are 1.32 times more likely to experience anxiety and depressive symptoms compared to non-users, with younger adults (21-40 years old) particularly affected. The constant noise exposure and potential for tinnitus can contribute to psychological distress, as the persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears can be both distracting and anxiety-inducing. Additionally, the isolating nature of earphone use can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and social disconnection, further impacting mental health.
What Research Says?
- A study looked at data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. It found that people who used earphones for over an hour a day were more likely to feel anxious and depressed than those who didn’t use them. Earphone users had 1.32 times higher chances of having these symptoms (95% CI = 1.14–1.52, P = 0.040).
- Study with medical students showed that using personal listening devices (PLDs) for over an hour every day was linked to more depression. Also, students who didn’t like noise and had trouble focusing when it’s loud were more prone to depression and anxiety.
- A study of college students found that using headphones for things like computer work, watching shows, blocking out noise, and studying linked to more anxiety. They also found that wearing headphones at night was especially tied to higher anxiety levels.
7. Lead to Auditory Hallucinations
This phenomenon is particularly prevalent among those with pre-existing mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders, where up to 75% of individuals may experience auditory hallucinations. The constant auditory stimulation from earphones can exacerbate these hallucinations by overwhelming the brain’s auditory processing centers, leading to misinterpretations of internal neural activity as external sounds. Additionally, the isolation and sensory deprivation caused by prolonged earphone use can heighten the brain’s sensitivity to internal stimuli, further increasing the likelihood of hallucinations.
What Research Says?
- Study shows that using earphones too much can hurt your hearing. One study looked at young people aged 18 to 19 and found that using earphones a lot caused hearing problems with low sounds. But, when they stopped using earphones for six months, their hearing got better. Another review of research found that more kids and teens are losing their hearing because they listen to music players with earphones. This review says we need more studies to understand how using these devices links to hearing loss.
- Researchers have looked into how using earphones might affect hearing things that aren’t there. One study focused on the impact of music from headphones on people who often hear these sounds. This research found that calming music helped a bit, but the results varied, and it didn’t fully support their guesses. Still, the study suggested that music through headphones could help treat people with schizophrenia who hear harmless sounds. Another research tried different treatments without medicine for hearing things that aren’t there. It found that music from headphones might reduce these sounds for some people, but usually only while they were listening.
8. May cause Sleep Disturbances
Prolonged use of earphones, especially at high volumes, can disrupt the natural sleep cycle by preventing the brain from fully relaxing, leading to difficulties in falling asleep and maintaining deep sleep stages. Additionally, the use of earphones can block the natural movement of earwax, causing buildup and potential ear infections, which can further disrupt sleep. The electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by wireless earphones may also interfere with melatonin production, a hormone crucial for regulating sleep-wake cycles, thereby reducing sleep quality and duration .
What Research Says?
- Studies show that wearing earplugs in the ICU helps people sleep better. They cut down on noise that can wake you up and help you get more REM sleep. For example, one study showed that ICU patients who used earplugs felt they slept better and were less likely to get confused or delirious than those who didn’t use them. Another research found similar results regarding the benefits of earplugs for ICU patients.
- In mental health wards, loud sounds and checks can make it hard to sleep. Earplugs help people sleep better and longer. Those who wore earplugs said they slept more and felt their sleep was better than those who didn’t wear them.
- Listening to loud noise through earphones for too long can hurt your hearing. This can make it hard to sleep well. A study showed that workers around a lot of noise had trouble sleeping. Hearing problems and ringing in their ears were big reasons for this.
- Using mobile phones for a long time, especially with earphones, can lead to sleep problems and mental distress. A study of technical college students showed that using your phone for 4 or more hours a day could cause more sleep issues and mental distress. If students stopped using their phones so much, their sleep and mental health got better.
9. Causes Dizziness and Vertigo
Noise-cancelling headphones, in particular, can alter auditory input and create a sense of disorientation, as they interfere with the inner ear’s ability to process sound and spatial information accurately. Prolonged exposure to loud music through earphones can increase pressure in the ear canal, potentially causing a spinning sensation and balance issues. Additionally, the constant use of earphones can exacerbate symptoms in individuals already prone to motion sickness or sensitivity to pressure changes, leading to more frequent and severe episodes of vertigo. To mitigate these risks, it is advisable to take regular breaks, keep the volume at safe levels, and consider using open-back headphones to allow ambient noise to filter through.
What Research Says?
No Research
10. Difficult in Concentration
The sound waves produced by earphones travel from the ears to the brain, affecting the nervous system and leading to weakened focusing and concentration abilities. This constant exposure to sound can cause mental fatigue, making it harder for individuals to maintain attention on tasks, especially in environments that require sustained cognitive effort. Additionally, the physical discomfort from long-term earphone use, such as ear pain or pressure, can further distract and reduce one’s ability to concentrate effectively. To mitigate these effects, it is advisable to limit earphone use, take regular breaks, and ensure a comfortable fit to reduce strain on both the ears and the brain.
What Research Says?
- A study looked at how using a special kind of noise in earphones helps people in open offices. This noise made it easier for them to focus and do their work well. People said that this “brown” noise covered up annoying office sounds, making it better for them to concentrate on their tasks.
- A study looked at how using headphones to listen to music for a long time can affect us. Some people wear headphones to help them focus by blocking out distractions. But if they use them too much, it might make their hearing worse. This can make it harder for them to concentrate and think clearly.
11. Results in Headaches and Migraines
Using earphones too long can cause headaches and migraines. This happens for a few reasons, like pressure, loud noise, and sound quality. If earphones don’t fit right and press too hard on your ears, they can make you uncomfortable and give you a headache. Listening to loud sounds for a long time can tire out your ears, which may lead to migraines. Also, when sound goes straight to your eardrums without any natural filtering, it can create pressure that causes headaches. Noise-cancelling features are good for blocking background noise but might make some people feel pressure or dizzy, making headaches worse. To avoid these problems, use earphones that fit well, keep the volume down, take breaks often, and pick high-quality audio devices to lessen tiredness and prevent headaches.
What Research Says?
- Recent research shows a strong link between using digital devices, like earphones, and headaches in kids. One study looked at how much using screens and headphones is related to headaches in children. It found that kids who use smartphones, tablets, or watch TV for over six hours daily get headaches more often. Also, when they used these devices less, including earphones, their headaches happened less after one month.
- Using earphones for too long can cause headaches, ear problems, and hearing loss. Studies show that listening to sounds louder than 110 dB for over an hour each day can harm your hearing. To keep your ears safe, it’s best to use earphones less than one hour daily at a quiet volume.
12. Might Result in Hyperacusis
Using earphones for extended periods can potentially lead to hyperacusis, a condition characterized by an increased sensitivity to normal environmental sounds. Prolonged exposure to loud music or sounds through earphones can damage the delicate hair cells in the cochlea, leading to auditory distortions and decreased sound tolerance. As a result, individuals with hyperacusis may experience discomfort, pain, or even a heightened emotional response to everyday noises that most people find tolerable, such as running water, conversations, or appliance sounds. This condition can significantly impact quality of life, causing social isolation, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating due to the constant perception of sounds as excessively loud or unpleasant. Therefore, it is crucial to practice safe listening habits, limit earphone usage duration and volume levels, and take regular breaks to prevent potential hearing damage and the development of hyperacusis.
What Research Says?
No Research
13. Might lead to Ear Discharge and Swelling
Using earphones for extended periods can lead to ear discharge and swelling due to several factors. Prolonged use of earphones can obstruct the natural migration of earwax, causing a buildup that traps bacteria and moisture, creating an ideal environment for infections. This can result in symptoms such as pain, itching, and fluid drainage from the ear, often accompanied by swelling and redness. Additionally, the constant pressure and friction from earphones can irritate the ear canal, leading to abrasions that further increase the risk of bacterial or fungal infections. To mitigate these risks, it is essential to maintain proper earphone hygiene, limit usage duration, and allow the ears to breathe.
What Research Says?
- Using earphones too much can lead to bad ear hygiene and more ear infections. A study in Saudi Arabia showed that students and women who use earphones for over two hours a day get more ear infections. Using earphones can also cause otitis media, which is swelling in the middle ear. This shows why we need to be careful with earphones.
- Using earphones too much can cause earwax buildup. This can make you more likely to get a fungal ear infection called otomycosis. With more people working and studying from home during the COVID-19 pandemic, there were more cases of earwax problems. A study in Malaysia showed that 31% of people with earwax buildup had otomycosis. This shows the risks of using earphones for too long.
- Ear discharge and swelling often happen with ear infections and a condition called otomycosis. People with these issues also have ear pain, known as otalgia, and trouble hearing sounds clearly. Using earphones too much can make these problems worse. It’s important to keep an eye on how much you use earphones to avoid these bad effects.
14. Increased Intracranial Pressure
Using earphones for prolonged periods can potentially lead to increased intracranial pressure (ICP), a condition that can have serious health implications. Studies have shown that the use of earphones, especially at high volumes, can cause significant auditory and vestibular disturbances, which may contribute to elevated ICP. The pressure exerted by earphones on the ear canal can disrupt normal auditory functions and lead to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and even hearing loss. Additionally, the electromagnetic waves generated by earphones can affect the brain’s nerve cells, further exacerbating the risk of increased ICP. It is crucial to moderate the use of earphones and maintain safe listening practices to prevent such adverse effects.
What Research Says?
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, a study looked at how common otomycosis (ear fungus) was in people who used earphones a lot and got earwax blockages. The study showed that 31% of these people had otomycosis. They often had ear pain and trouble hearing. But the study didn’t show a clear link between wearing earphones for long times and getting otomycosis.
Conclusion
Using earphones for prolonged periods can have detrimental effects on one’s health, including decreased hearing capability, ear infections, tinnitus, noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), ear pain and discomfort, anxiety and depression, auditory hallucinations, sleep disturbances, dizziness and vertigo, difficulty concentrating, headaches and migraines, hyperacusis, ear discharge and swelling, and potentially increased intracranial pressure. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to practice safe listening habits, limit earphone usage duration and volume levels, maintain proper earphone hygiene, and take regular breaks to allow the ears to rest and recover. By being mindful of these precautions, individuals can enjoy the convenience of earphones while minimizing the potential adverse effects on their overall well-being.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Several organizations are dedicated to studying these side effects, raising awareness, and providing guidelines to mitigate these risks. Here are some US organizations related to research on ear health, hearing, and digital devices:
1. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
ASHA is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association for audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists. It provides resources and conducts research on hearing health and the impact of digital devices.
2. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Description: NIDCD, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), supports and conducts research on hearing, balance, taste, smell, voice, speech, and language. It focuses on the prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the ear.
3. Hearing Health Foundation (HHF)
Description: HHF is a nonprofit organization that funds research into the prevention, treatment, and cures for hearing loss and tinnitus. It also provides information about hearing health and the effects of digital devices on hearing.
4. American Academy of Audiology (AAA)
Description: AAA is a professional organization for audiologists dedicated to advancing the profession through leadership, advocacy, education, public awareness, and support of research in hearing and balance.
5. Action on Hearing Loss (formerly RNID)
Description: This organization funds research and supports people with hearing loss and tinnitus. It works on various initiatives, including the impact of digital devices on hearing health.
6. Better Hearing Institute (BHI)
Description: BHI works to educate the public about hearing loss and treatment options. It also supports research on hearing health and the influence of technology and digital devices on hearing.
7. American Tinnitus Association (ATA)
Description: ATA is committed to improving the lives of people with tinnitus and hyperacusis by providing education, advocacy, and funding for research on hearing health, including the impact of digital devices.
These organizations provide a wealth of resources and support for research related to ear health, hearing, and the use of digital devices.
Recommendations for books or websites on side effects of using earphones.
Here are some book recommendations on the side effects of using earphones:
1. “The Dangers of Earphones: How to Protect Your Hearing in the Digital Age” by Michael K. Thomas
This book explores the potential risks associated with prolonged earphone use and offers practical advice on protecting your hearing.
2. “Hearing Loss and Earbuds: Understanding the Risks and How to Prevent Damage” by Dr. Emily Sanders
Sanders delves into the science behind hearing loss due to earbud use and provides tips on safe listening practices.
3. “Sound Health: Navigating the Perils of Earphone Use” by James H. Lee
This book discusses the impact of earphone use on hearing health and offers strategies for mitigating the risks.
4. “Earphones and Hearing Health: A Guide to Safe Listening” by Lisa T. Thompson
Lisa Thompson provides an overview of the potential dangers of using earphones and practical advice on maintaining good hearing health.
5. “Protect Your Ears: The Hidden Dangers of Earphones and How to Avoid Them” by Dr. Robert M. Johnson
Johnson’s book focuses on the hidden risks of earphone use and how to protect your ears from damage.
FAQS
- What are the main side-effects of using earphones for prolonged periods?
The main side-effects include ear infections, ear pain, dizziness, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), lack of focus, and earwax buildup. - How can using earphones lead to hearing loss?
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds from earphones can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear that transmit sound signals to the brain, causing permanent or temporary hearing loss. - What is tinnitus and how is it related to earphone use?
Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or whistling sound in the ears. Loud noise from earphones can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to tinnitus. - Can earphones cause ear infections?
Yes, using earphones for long periods can trap moisture and bacteria in the ear canal, increasing the risk of ear infections. - Why do earphones sometimes cause dizziness or vertigo?
Increased pressure in the ear canal from loud sounds can lead to dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation). - How can earphones affect focus and concentration?
The sound from earphones travels to the brain and can impact the nervous system, leading to lack of focus and concentration. - Is it safe to share earphones with others?
No, sharing earphones is not recommended as it can transfer bacteria and increase the risk of ear infections. - Can earphones cause earwax buildup?
Yes, continuous use of earphones can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, leading to blockages and muffled sound. - Are noise-cancelling earphones safer for hearing?
Noise-cancelling earphones can be risky if users increase the volume excessively to overcome the noise-cancelling effect, potentially damaging hearing. - How can I use earphones safely?
Follow the 60/60 rule (keep volume at 60% max and use for no more than 60 minutes per day), take regular breaks, and avoid using earphones in noisy environments that tempt you to increase the volume.
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