Updated at : 28-01-26 15:20:36

Can Headphones Damage Your Hearing? Here’s How

Do you enjoy listening to your favourite soundtrack using headphones on repeat mode?

Do you know that there is a direct relation between headphones and hearing damage?

Then, you must be cautious.

Can headphones damage your hearing? Straight answer: Yes. But how?
Will we understand it all through the following blog?

How are headphones bad for your ears?

Let's start with the question: Are headphones bad for your ears? As mentioned before, yes, it is.

According to a study, 1 in every 8 young people between the ages of 6 and

19 experiences hearing loss.

This is just because they listen to music in their AirPods excessively. This is indeed alarming news! Here's how your ear becomes damaged.

Loud Volume

The high sound waves directly hit the inner ear at intense levels. It helps to bend the sensory hair cells excessively.

Prolonged Exposure

If you listen to continuous high sounds, especially through devices like earphones or earbuds, it stresses the cells over time. Consultation with a revered ENT specialist is the need of the hour.

Another grave concern pertaining to prolonged sound exposure is the reduction of blood circulation around your ear canals. It causes ear fatigue. Many of you raise the volume levels unknowingly. It may develop hearing loss.

Irreversible Damage

The ear cells, unlike the other cells, do not regenerate. Hence, there always remains the chance of some permanent damage. Therefore, you have to be deeply concerned regarding the loss and limit listening via headphones.

Infection

If you keep listening to your music for a long time, the ear devices may trap moisture and bacteria. They may increase the risk of ear infections.

Tips for Using Headphones Safely

So, are there any problems with using headphones or earbuds? Of course not.

There are a few techniques through which you could safely use your headphones without having many problems with your ears.

Firstly, you must turn the volume of your headset down and listen. For instance, around 50% to 60% of your maximum volume would be good for your ear! Keep it within this level.
Secondly, you must choose a headphone which is not tightly fitted.
Choose high-quality headphones or earbuds that are soft on the ears. These gadgets are based on sound quality and not necessarily high noise.

FAQs

Do headphones damage your ears?

Yes, headphones can damage your ears if you use them at high volumes. Also, if your ear is exposed to loud sounds, you may experience hearing issues.

Do AirPods damage your ears more than headphones?

AirPods or any other earbuds sit close to the eardrum. It can increase sound pressure. They may pose a high risk if you use them for long hours.

What are the side effects of headphones on our brains?

Till now, there is no conclusive evidence that headphones damage the brain. However, you could experience stress from loud noise. It may cause you to lack concentration.

Can sleeping with earphones cause hearing loss?

The answer to the question is yes. If you sleep with earphones, they may stay in your ears for many hours without any interruption. As a result, it may damage your ear.

How loud is too loud?

According to a study, sound volumes of 80 dB to 90 dB are 10 times more intense for your ears. Within this range and beyond, you must be cautious.

What is the safe volume level for headphones?

According to the WHO, 80 decibels is considered safe for your ears. However, anything more than that will invite problems.