Tinnitus is the perception of sound, such as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring, that does not originate from an external source. It can be heard in one or both ears, or even in the head, and may be constant or intermittent. Many individuals are concerned about whether headphone use can worsen this condition or contribute to its development.
How Headphones Affect Hearing
Sound travels through the ear canal, causing the eardrum to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted to the inner ear, specifically to the cochlea, which contains thousands of tiny hair cells (stereocilia). These delicate hair cells convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that the brain interprets as sound.
Prolonged or excessively loud sound exposure, particularly from headphones, can damage these hair cells. Once damaged, these hair cells do not regenerate, leading to permanent hearing loss. This type of damage is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and is frequently associated with the onset or exacerbation of tinnitus.
The proximity of headphone speakers to the eardrum can intensify sound exposure, making it easier to reach harmful decibel levels. Sounds at or below 70 decibels (dB) are generally considered safe, but long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 dB can cause hearing loss. For context, normal conversation is around 60-70 dB, while some portable music devices can reach 120 dB, comparable to a rock concert.
Factors Influencing Tinnitus Worsening
The manner in which headphones are used significantly affects their potential to exacerbate existing tinnitus or contribute to its onset.
Volume level is a direct factor, as higher volumes increase the risk of damage. Listening at levels above 85 dB for prolonged periods can harm hearing, with sounds at 100 dB causing damage in as little as 15 minutes. The duration of use is also important; continuous, long-term exposure, even at moderate volumes, can be detrimental, fatiguing the ear’s sensory cells.
The type of headphones can also play a role. In-ear headphones (earbuds) are inserted directly into the ear canal, potentially intensifying sound exposure compared to over-ear headphones, which provide some physical barrier. Noise-canceling headphones, however, can be beneficial by reducing external sounds, allowing users to listen at lower, safer volumes without needing to turn up the audio to overcome background noise. Individuals with pre-existing hearing loss or sensitivity may be more susceptible to the effects of headphone use on tinnitus.
Strategies for Safe Headphone Use
Adopting safe listening habits can significantly minimize the risk of headphone-related hearing damage and tinnitus exacerbation.
A widely recommended guideline is the “60/60 rule,” which suggests keeping the volume at no more than 60% of the maximum level and limiting continuous listening to no more than 60 minutes before taking a break. This approach helps prevent the strain on delicate inner ear hair cells.
Regular listening breaks, such as 5-10 minutes every hour, allow the ears to recover from sound exposure. Choosing the right headphones can also contribute to hearing protection, with noise-canceling or well-fitting over-ear headphones blocking external noise and reducing the temptation to increase volume. It is advisable to be mindful of the listening environment, avoiding the use of headphones in excessively loud settings where the tendency to raise the volume is greater. Paying attention to any new or worsening tinnitus symptoms is important, as these can be early indicators of auditory strain.
When to Consult a Professional
Seeking professional medical advice is advisable if tinnitus symptoms become persistent, worsen, or cause significant distress. If tinnitus is regular, constant, or interferes with sleep, concentration, or causes anxiety, a general practitioner should be consulted.
An urgent medical appointment is warranted if tinnitus is accompanied by sudden hearing loss, facial muscle weakness, or vertigo. Seek evaluation if tinnitus is present in only one ear, began after a head injury, or pulsates rhythmically with the heartbeat. While tinnitus is often not serious, persistent symptoms or those impacting daily life warrant a medical assessment to identify any underlying causes and discuss management options.