People who play instruments or attend concerts frequently may be at an increased risk for hearing loss. A study suggested that up to 30% of pop artists and 52% of classical musicians may develop some degree of noise-induced hearing loss. On the plus side, suffering from hearing loss does not have to severely interrupt your life.
Hearing Health Dangers for Musicians
Exposure to loud noises for extended periods of time can cause nerve damage to the cochlea. Over time, people may begin experiencing:
- An inability to hear high frequencies (pitches)
- Ringing in the ears
- Diminished ability to tell the difference between pitch
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Uncomfortable sensitivity to certain pitches
Unfortunately, this is permanent damage. Speech reading, hearing aids, and other technology can usually help.
Protecting Your Ears as a Musician
Every musician and music fan needs to understand the risk to their ears. A large orchestra can reach 112 decibels or more, while a rock concert can reach 120 – 130 decibels. In contrast, factory machinery is usually around 100 decibels.
If you enjoy performing or hearing live music, please take steps to protect your ears. Musicians’ Monitors are available in a range of styles and prices to protect your hearing during your own performance or during the performance of your favorite musician. Call Clark Audiology at 484-231-1340 to schedule an appointment to discuss your personal needs and options. Of course, you should also be careful to keep headphones, stereos, and other entertainment at a reasonable volume.
