When Escaping with Music or Podcasts, Be Mindful of Your Ears

(KDLM/MNC) – Cranking up the volume on your headphones can have long lasting repercussions according to reasearch.

Listening to music via headphones or earbuds to reduce stress from work or school is common, but setting the volume too high can result in noise-induced hearing loss.

Many health experts suggest the 80/90 rule, which is staying at or below 80% volume for no more than 90 minutes.

Kim Fishman, licensed audiologist and owner of Hears To U, said for those already experiencing hearing damage, it is important to carry protective gear such as earplugs, if you know you’ll be in a situation with loud noises.

“Just like if you know you’re going to be out in the sun for sun exposure you’re going to wear sun protection, you definitely want to wear hearing protection, too,” Fishman urged.

Many Americans are resuming exercise at a health club after a long absence, and when background noise goes up, such as at the gym, headphone volume does too, which contributes to hearing-loss issues. Fishman suggested if you are doing a group exercise involving loud music, it is worth asking staff to turn the speakers down.

Claire Johnson, manager of clinical services for UnitedHealthcare and an audiologist, said hearing loss is the third most chronic condition. She said 48 million Americans experience hearing loss, which typically can only be corrected by wearing hearing aids.

While it is most common among people 50 and older, Johnson noted it is increasing among young people and can be traced to music-listening devices.

“A recent study found that 19% of people of the age 19 to 29 are already experiencing some degree of loss,” Johnson reported. “Part of this is due to the rise of these different music players that we’re listening to day in and day out.”

Johnson also recommended eating post-workout foods rich in potassium, zinc and magnesium, such as bananas, yogurt, nuts and seeds, eggs and avocados, because they have been shown to help maintain hearing health and contribute to overall well-being.