Are you wearing your earphones constantly? experts say you should stop

In today’s fast-paced world, many have accustomed themselves with always having earphones on – whether to listen to music, take calls, or simply block the external noise. But according to health experts, this may not be as harmless a habit as it seems.

The Health Risks of Constant Earphone Use

While earphones allow for convenience and entertainment, some experts are offering caution against taking the use to a life of pro-longed and continuum. According to audiologists, constant use of earphones can have varied negative effects both on hearing health and overall wellbeing.

One primary concern is potential damage to one’s hearing. Over time, hearing loss may result when one is subjected to high volumes for extended amounts of time; this type of hearing loss is known as noise-induced hearing loss, or NIHL in short. This occurs when the sound levels are above 85 decibels, which is very common with loud music through earphones. The closer the source of the sound is to the ear, the more intense the sound can be, thus making the possibility of permanent damage to the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear even greater.

According to the World Health Organization, there are around 1.1 billion young people in the world who run the risk of losing their hearing due to this unsafe listening culture, which also includes excessive use of earphones at a very high volume.

Effects on Mental and Physical Health

It is not only hearing that is at risk when one uses earphones all the time. Experts have pointed out the effects on mental and physical health as well. The continuous use of earphones makes a person feel isolated in a cocoon in which he blocks out the world around him. Lack of interaction with the environment can cause stress, loss of concentration, and even anxiety-particularly in social situations where communication is called for.

Further, the use of earphones for extended periods may create physical irritation, ear infections, or deteriorating ears containing excessive earwax, and also aching jaws. Pressures in the ears caused by the use of earphones continuously irritate the canals, and not allowing ears to “breathe” gives rise to a higher susceptibility to infection.

A recent study published in the *Journal of the American Medical Association* also suggested a link between constant earphone use and an increased risk of tinnitus—a condition wherein ringing occurs in the ears. Tinnitus is often associated with long-term exposure to loud noise, and earphones, especially when worn continuously, can exacerbate this condition.

The Importance of Taking Breaks

Experts advise that earphone users adopt healthier listening habits. One key recommendation is the 60/60 rule: listen at no more than 60% of maximum volume for no longer than 60 minutes at a time. Taking regular breaks from earphones is crucial for allowing the ears to recover. Additionally, experts recommend using over-the-ear headphones, which are generally considered safer than in-ear models, as they provide better sound isolation and reduce the need for high volume levels.

Dr. Emily Williams, an audiologist, says, “It doesn’t mean using earphones are harmful, yet one should know when to give rest, lower the volume, and look out for signs of discomfort in the ear. The precautions taken today may save your hearing later.”

Easy Tips for Safer Listening with Earphones

1. Cut Down the Volume:Keep the volume low-sufficiently low-ideally less than 60% of the maximum capacity of your playing device.
2. Limit Usage: Apply the 60/60 rule or take a break every hour to avoid straining your ears too much.

3. Opt for Over-Ear Headphones:Wherever possible, try substituting with over-ear headphones, as they tend to decrease the risk of an ear infection or even hearing damage.

4. keep Your Earphones Clean: There are bacteria in your earphones; hence, clean them regularly.
5. **Watch Your Ears:** Be aware of any discomfort, ringing, or a feeling that your ears are plugged as signals that your ears are in danger.

Moderation is Key

As handy as earphones may be, the impact on one’s hearing and general health is for real. According to health experts, moderation is the key: using earphones in a balanced manner and with consideration for the volume and length of listening. By using safe listening practices, individuals are able to protect their hearing and prevent additional health risks.

So, the next time you plug in your earphones, give yourself breaks every now and then to keep your ears—and the rest of your body—healthy!

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