What happens if you wear headphones for too long?

Every day, we rely on headphones to communicate, stream TV shows, and execute various other activities. However, it's important to realise that improper use of these devices can lead to a hearing impairment. While these devices are designed to enhance comfort and convenience, advocating for their complete ban to protect our hearing is unnecessary. Instead, our goal should be to understand how the excessive use of headphones might impact our hearing in the long run.

If your ears hurt after using headphones, there could be a few reasons why:

• Prolonged use. Using them for too long can lead to ear infections, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears. It can also trap moisture in the ear causing ear infections.
• Excessive volume. Listening at high volumes for extended periods can tire out your ears and lead to discomfort or even pain. Dangerous levels start around 85 decibels and can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage.
• Incorrect use of headphones. Wearing headphones that are too tight can put pressure on your ears and cause discomfort, skin irritation, and itching. Also, they can make it harder for earwax to naturally clear out, which can lead to pain and inflammation.

Earbuds can also cause ear pain because they're foreign objects in contact with the ear canal. This can lead to irritation and inflammation, especially for inviduals with sensitive skin. Dermatitis may result in ear infections, causing intense pain, particularly if earphones are used despite discomfort or if they push earwax deeper into the ear canal. In such cases, it’s crucial to avoid self-treatment and consult a specialist or doctor for appropriate therapy.

Bluetooth headphones are generally considered safe. However, a study published a few years ago raised some concerns about potential health consequences stemming from prolonged exposure to the electromagnetic fields produced by Bluetooth technology.

Nonetheless, a more recent study refuted these claims, suggesting that the level of risk associated with Bluetooth radiation is actually lower than that of smartphones. In fact, it is essential to recognise that wireless headphones are not harmful to our health as long as we use them responsibly.

In addition to daily cleanings, there are a few small precautions that can be taken to use headphones or earbuds without damaging your ears:

• Keeping the volume of the device at 60% or lower
• Wearing a comfortable fit that does not apply too much pressure on the ears
• Using a dry and soft cloth to clean the devices
• Taking regular breaks from wearing them
• Avoiding prolonged usage
• Scheduling periodic ear checks to reduce the buildup of earwax.

If you ear pain lasts more than a day or you suspect an infection or injury, don't treat it yourself. Consult your pharmacist about over-the-counter ear drops or consult a hearing specialist for a thorough examination and treatment. Regular check-ups and hearing tests are the best prevention.

For those with hearing issues, choosing the right hearing aids, whether external or internal, is important. Amplifon's experts can help you find the best option for your needs.