Using earbuds has become a daily habit for many people. However, improper use of earbuds can lead to discomfort and hearing loss.
By following a few safety guidelines, you can enjoy your earbuds while keeping your ears healthy. Consider the following tips to get the most out of your earbuds but still protect your hearing:
Choose the Right Volume
One of the biggest risks associated with earbuds is listening at too high a volume. Loud music or sounds consistently above 85 dB can cause noise-induced hearing loss over time. The World Health Organization considers 80 dB the safe listening threshold for an eight-hour workday.
Many devices, including your smartphone, allow you to measure and control the decibel levels of your audio. A good rule of thumb is to keep the volume at around 60% of the maximum level and avoid listening for extended periods.
If you find that you need to increase the volume to hear clearly, it might be due to background noise, especially if you’re at a noisy place like Rhapsody Fitness. Instead of raising the volume, consider using noise-canceling earbuds or headphones. These block out external sounds, allowing you to hear your audio clearly without risking damage to your ears by turning up the volume too high.
Limit Listening Time
Another factor to consider is how long you use earbuds. Prolonged exposure to sound, even at lower volumes, can still negatively affect your hearing. To avoid this, try giving your ears a break after 60 minutes of listening for at least 10 minutes.
Taking regular breaks gives your ears time to recover, reducing the risk of permanent damage. If you frequently use earbuds for work or entertainment, make sure to pause and give your ears a rest throughout the day.
Keep Your Earbuds Clean
Earbuds come in direct contact with your ears, so it’s essential to keep them clean to avoid infections or irritation. Bacteria and dirt can accumulate on the surface of earbuds, which could lead to ear infections if not cleaned regularly. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down your earbuds after each use and avoid sharing them with others to prevent the spread of germs.
It’s possible to safely use earbuds, but it requires diligence. Taking these precautions helps to avoid permanent hearing damage.
To check in on your hearing, reach out to Charleston ENT & Allergy today to schedule a hearing consultation.