James is a music enthusiast who has mastered the art of incorporating his favorite music into his day-to-day life, effortlessly shifting from Spotify at his desk to Pandora on his runs, and meticulously putting together playlists to perfectly complement every activity, whether he’s working out, whipping up a meal, or immersed in a gaming session. He’s seldom observed without his headphones, which have become an integral part of his day-to-day life, transforming every moment into an individualized audio adventure. However, while James finds relaxaction and joy in the immersive world of music, the very thing he cherishes could be silently weakening his priceless sense of hearing.

There are safe ways to appreciate music and ways that are more hazardous to your hearing health. Regrettably, many of us tend to gravitate towards the latter.

How does prolonged music exposure result in hearing loss?

Extended exposure to loud sounds can result in a decrease in your auditory function. We’re used to regarding hearing loss as a problem related to aging, but more and more research indicates that it’s really the build-up of noise-related damage that is the issue here and not anything inherent in the aging process.

Younger individuals are more sensitive to noise-induced harm as their ears are still in the developmental phase. And yet, young adults are more likely to be dismissive of the long-term perils of high volume. A growing amount of young people are experiencing hearing loss due to frequent use of loud headphones.

Is it possible to enjoy music safely?

Listening to music at full blast with no limits is the most hazardous approach. But there is a safe(er) way to enjoy your music, and it normally involves turning the volume down. The general rules for safe volumes are:

• Adults should restrict their device listening time to 40 hours or less and make sure the volume remains under 80 dB.
• If you’re under 18, 40 hours is still fine, just be sure to keep the sound at a safe level, 75 decibels or less.

Forty hours per week is about five hours and forty minutes a day. That might seem like a lot, but it can go by fairly quickly. Despite this, the majority of people have a well-developed understanding of time management, a skill that is usually perfected during early childhood.

The more difficult aspect entails tracking your volume level. Devices like smartphones, computers, and TVs typically do not show volume in decibels. Its value is established using a somewhat subjective or relative scale. Perhaps it’s 1-100. But maybe it’s 1-16. You may be unaware of the maximum volume capacity of your device or how close you are to reaching that limit.

Tips for effectively keeping track of your music volume

Several free noise monitoring apps can be downloaded for both iPhone and Android devices to tackle this issue. These apps supply immediate feedback on surrounding noise levels, allowing users to fine-tune their listening volume to safe levels.

Because of this, many audiologists suggest utilizing one of the numerous noise level monitoring apps available at no cost. These extensively obtainable apps, compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, provide instant sound-level feedback on the ambient noise around you. That way, you can keep track of the dB level of your music in real time and make adjustments.

Comparing relative volumes: from garbage disposals to dishwasher

As illustration, 80 dB is roughly comparable to the noise produced by a common garbage disposal or dishwasher– audible, yet not excessively loud. Recognizing this volume level is important because it denotes the point at which hearing loss becomes a real and tangible worry.

It’s important to exercise increased vigilance when noise levels go above this critical point. Consider reducing exposure to overly loud music by enjoying select tracks at full volume instead of indulging in complete albums.

Recurring exposure to elevated volume levels can trigger hearing complications such as tinnitus and eventual hearing loss. By being mindful of when our ears are at risk, we allow ourselves to make informed decisions in order to promote safer listening habits.

Make an appointment for a hearing assessment

For better prioritization of your hearing health, it is advisable to consult a hearing specialist to schedule a comprehensive hearing test. Proactive measures like regular assessments can identify any potential issues early on, enabling timely interventions and individualized recommendations to safeguard your vital sense of hearing.