happy + healthy
hearing loss
TURN IT DOWN
Loud volumes on iPods, cell phones and other personal devices
"It only takes 15 minutes
per week of listening at
the maximum volume
to cause permanent
hearing loss!”
are contributing to an increase in the number of children, teens
and adults that suffer from noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL)
each year. Hearing loss is the third most common health problem
in the United States and affects over 36 million Americans.
“Hearing loss in children has become a serious problem,” said Heather Baty,
audiologist at Children’s of Alabama. “It is critical to a child’s safety and to the
development of many social skills, speech and learning.”
According to the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association, almost
12 percent of all children between the ages of 6-19 have noise-induced hearing
loss (NIHL).
Part of the inner ear, called the cochlea, contains tiny hair cells that send sound
messages to the brain. However, once the hair cells within the cochlea are
damaged, they cannot grow back, making the damage permanent. A hearing test
is often necessary to detect NIHL because many people are not aware of the loss.
Fortunately, noise-induced hearing loss is 100
percent preventable. Here are some
ways to prevent NIHL:
TURN IT DOWN - Turn down the volume on iPods, cell phones, the
television and the radio. Keep the volume at no more than 60 percent, or at
normal conversation volume. Also, being able to hear music outside of the
headphones is a sure sign that the volume is too loud and hearing is being
affected!
VOLUME CONTROL: Most
phones should allow you to adjust the
maximum volume limit. iPhone users can
adjust this by going under Settings. To lock
the volume limit, go to Settings>General,
then select Restrictions.
TUNE OUT THE NOISE: Noise-
cancelling headphones help drown out other
sounds in the environment that can make it
harder to hear your music, so you won’t be
tempted to turn up the volume.
PLUG IN: Soft, foam earplugs are
to limit the amount of time with ear buds in. A good rule is the 60 percent/
60-minute rule. Keep the volume at 60 percent for no more than 60 minutes. inexpensive but can make a big difference in
protecting your ears in loud environments,
such as concerts. Avoid standing near
speakers in front of the stage at concerts and
clubs, too.
USE HEARING PROTECTION - Ear muffs are often less CUSTOM-MADE: Musicians often
LIMIT LISTENING TIME - Another easy way to prevent NIHL is
damaging than earbuds, but both can be dangerous when not used in
moderation. Fortunately, both are available with features that promote safe
hearing. Also, wear earplugs at concerts and places where the noise will be
damaging.
For more information on preventing noise-induced hearing loss and healthy
listening habits, visit www.childrensal.org.
34
Several products are
available to protect the
ears and reduce the risk of
hearing loss. Here’s a few
suggestions:
| Summer 2020
www.potentialmagazine.com
use custom-fitted ear plugs or monitors to
protect their hearing. If your teen plays in a
band, consider having them fitted for a pair.
They are well-worth the cost when it comes
to protecting their hearing long-term.