Earworx first wrote about earphones and personal music players in March 2020. The devices have changed, but the core message still matters: excessively loud listening over time may damage hearing.
It is not the brand of earphone that determines the risk. What matters is the sound level, how long you listen and how often exposure occurs. Noise-cancelling features can make it easier to hear music without turning the volume up in busy environments.
Listening habits worth keeping
- Keep personal audio at a comfortable volume.
- Take breaks, particularly after extended listening sessions.
- Do not use earphones at a level that leaves ringing or muffled hearing afterwards.
- Use appropriate hearing protection around concerts, machinery and other loud activities.
If you have ongoing hearing concerns, an ear check can identify visible problems such as wax, but a hearing test is needed to assess hearing ability. Earworx can advise on both the ear-check service and the separate visiting audiologist appointments.
Find out more
This article offers general information, not individual medical advice. Contact your GP or NHS 111 for medical concerns; seek emergency help where indicated.
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