|
What are the dangers?
Experts have cautioned that listening with MP3 Players in general, and iPods in particular, can potentially cause hearing loss over time. Noise induced hearing loss can occur for a variety of reasons. Sudden loud noise such as a gun firing or an explosion at close range can cause permanent damage to the auditory system. In this situation, the exposure to noise is brief but the ear does not have time to sense the sudden trauma and protect itself; thus damage occurs. This is evident when ringing in the ears is present after the event.
Another cause of hearing loss is exposure to significant noise levels over an extended period of time. The loudness that creates the damage may not seem excessive to some people; perhaps the sound of a loud truck, a vacuum cleaner, or machines in a factory. When exposed to these sounds the ear will to some extent attempt to protect itself, but over a prolonged period of time, it fatigues and damage occurs. The damage occurs gradually and is generally not noticeable until it is too late. Thus hearing loss can result from exposure to loud sounds (sounds over 120 decibels for instance) or exposure to less intense noise over a period of time (85 decibels for more than an hour).
Why would an iPod be of particular concern?
Some of the unique features of an iPod create additional concerns related to hearing. One is the earbud style headphones which move the source of sound closer to the structures which allow us to hear. These earbuds actually increase the sound by 6-9 decibels over the traditional over-the-ear headphones. Thus, they give us louder listening and greater risk of damage. In addition, the fact that the iPod can hold and play thousands of songs and hours of music ensures that we are listening for prolonged periods of time. As a result of this large capacity, even if the volume is adjusted down a bit, damage can still occur with the prolonged listening.
Are there steps to take to protect hearing?
This news hasn't made most iPod fans decide to give up their devices. Most of are resigned to the idea that just about everything potentially causes damage to their fragile bodies and the goal is to act responsibly while still enjoying themselves.
Indeed, there are a few steps to take to help reduce the risk of permanent hearing loss.
• Dial the volume down to 6 or lower
• Use over-the-ear headphones versus earbuds
• Limit listening to no more than 1 hour at a time (less if listening level is at a 110 dB or higher)
• Use an external device without earphones when possible; for example plug the iPod into an iHome device or other compatible stereo system when at home. The sound is still incredible when playing it through compatible devices.
• Avoid using an iPod to drown out other loud noises, loud noise on top of loud noise is simply very loud noise.
Obviously, the joy of an iPod is not limited by age. Fans of the device span the generations. To assure that enjoyment can be had far beyond today, a few common sense precautions can help to protect the hearing that is needed for future listening pleasure.
He believes that consumers should not have to possess a technology degree to
be able to choose home electronics and entertainment devices. Take advantage of
the wealth of simple to understand, useful information and shopping available on
her website at
www.homemedias.info
|
|
SIGN
UP FOR FREE
