How to Use Earbuds without Damaging Hearing

Earbuds are tiny speakers worn inside the ear. They use Bluetooth to play music close to the eardrum. Almost all music lovers have these small devices because they are portable and easy to move around. Also, some people use earbuds for noise cancellation. However, they can damage hearing.  

Hearing loss due to earbuds is preventable if they aren’t too loud or used for too long. Volume levels determine how high or low the earbuds sound. The best volume level to listen to music or play a movie when using earbuds is 60%. Also, while listening to music, ensure to take silent breaks of about 5 minutes to prevent hearing loss. Keep reading to know more.

Can You Use Earbuds for Music if You Need Hearing Aids? 

There are several types of hearing aids available in the world today. Although earbuds can perform many functions, they cannot replace hearing aids. These days, hearing aids are very tiny and can fit into the ear perfectly while wearing earbuds. You can use your earbuds with hearing aids; however, music may not sound the same. 

As an individual with hearing aids, optimizing music to your taste is essential. Using an equalizer to enable you to increase and decrease the volume frequencies at will is also necessary. 

Tip: When listening to live music performances, use some adhesive tape on the hearing aid microphone to reduce the loud music. 

Can You Use AirPods as Hearing Aids? 

AirPods are cheaper than hearing aids and are wireless Bluetooth earbuds for people with mild hearing loss. These hearing devices fit better than earbuds, and they have unique features. The AirPods can connect to devices like phones. Those with severe hearing loss will need a traditional hearing aid as AirPods cannot function with such enhancement. 

One prominent reason AirPods can function as hearing aids is its proficient Live Listen feature. This feature helps to amplify sounds and reduce background noises in a crowded area. Although this is not the primary function of an AirPod, it functions well in that aspect.  

In a situation where you need someone to speak up, place your connected device on a table near the person. The AirPods will amplify whatever the person says as long as there is a Bluetooth connection.  

Balance Your Volume to the Length of Listening 

Always adjust the television or music volume down to the lowest possible volume. Loud noises damage the cochlea in the ear, which is responsible for hearing. Those with mild or severe hearing loss need to take breaks when listening to music and using noise cancellation headphones. 

Always make sure you have a volume limit and length of listening so as not to get carried away. Operate on the 60% volume and 5-minute break every 60 minutes intervals. This is a  safe volume level and is unlikely to cause hearing damage. However, a decibel level of above 70 dB is likely to damage hearing. 

Final Thoughts

Generally, loud noise is one of the leading causes of hearing damage, and earbuds are a significant source of loud sounds. Listening to loud music above 70dD through connected devices or at a concert can lead to hearing loss. This exposure to loud noise from earbuds often leads to permanent hearing loss. The bottom line is to use your earbuds at the lowest possible volume and for short periods.   

Reach out to Hearing Associates of Las Vegas for hearing evaluation and treatment, especially if you suspect that your earbuds are causing hearing issues.