Earphones Risks: Wearing Headphones While Sleeping, Working For a Long Time? Know Side Effects, Prevention Tips and More

Risks of Using Earphones: We are so obliged to use earphones in our daily lives that even if we are not listening to songs, we still wear them. Earphones have become a necessity rather than an entertainment medium. While earphones provide convenience and entertainment, regular use for long time can pose significant risks and side effects, including hearing loss, ear infections, and discomfort. 

Let us know the risks of wearing headphones for a longer period of time and preventive measures.

Earphones Side Effects

Regular use of earphones can pose several risks and side effects. 

Hearing Loss

Prolonged exposure to high volume levels via earphones can cause noise-induced hearing loss. Sound waves travel directly to the eardrum and inner ear, potentially causing permanent damage. Individuals may experience reduced hearing sensitivity, tinnitus (ear ringing), or a general decrease in auditory clarity.

Ear Infections

Earphones, particularly those that are not regularly cleaned, can harbor bacteria and fungi. Using them in shared or unclean environments can raise the risk of ear infections. Itching, pain, swelling, and ear discharge are among the possible symptoms.

Earwax Buildup

Inserting earphones frequently can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, causing accumulation and blockages. This can lead to discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and a higher risk of ear infections.

Tinnitus

You may suffer from Tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, caused by listening to loud music through earphones. Tinnitus can be distressing and have an impact on your life, such as difficulty concentrating and sleeping.

Physical Discomfort

Prolonged use of earphones, particularly poorly fitted ones, can result in physical discomfort and ear pain. This can include soreness, irritation, and even temporary hearing loss.

Prevention Tips

• Maintain a moderate volume, ideally less than 60% of the maximum volume. If others can hear your music through your earphones, the volume is too loud.

• Use the 60/60 rule; listen at 60% of your maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time, then take a break. This helps to reduce auditory fatigue and the risk of hearing damage.

• Noise-cancelling earphones reduce the need to increase the volume in noisy environments, protecting your hearing.

• To avoid bacteria buildup, clean your earphones on a regular basis. Use a dry cloth to wipe them down and remove any moisture or earwax.

• Choose earphones that will fit comfortably and securely in your ears. Poorly fitting earphones can cause discomfort and even ear infections.

• Sharing earphones spreads bacteria and raises the risk of infection. If sharing is necessary, thoroughly clean the earphones before and after each use.

• Be aware of your listening habits and adjust them if you feel any discomfort or signs of hearing loss. If you notice any persistent symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.