Chinese Woman's Daily Use Of Earphones At Night Causes Hearing Loss

The widespread use of headphones, whether for work or leisure activities like music listening, has become increasingly common. However, a concerning incident involving a young Chinese woman has sparked discussions about the potential risks associated with prolonged headphone use.

Ms. Wang, a personal secretary from Shandong, China, who routinely used headphones to fall asleep while listening to music, discovered she was experiencing hearing issues. Concerned about her ability to understand her boss’s whispered instructions during meetings, she sought medical attention.

Following a thorough examination, doctors determined that Ms Wang had sustained permanent neurological hearing damage in her left ear. When questioned about potential causes, Ms. Wang recalled her nightly habit of falling asleep with headphones on, a practice she had maintained for two years since her college days.

Dr. Li Tao, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology at the hospital, attributed Ms. Wang’s hearing loss to prolonged headphone use. Despite not listening at high volumes, the continuous exposure to music over extended periods led to irreversible damage. Fortunately, the damage was confined to her left ear, allowing for compensation with a hearing aid.

Dr Tao showed the importance of adhering to the ’60’ principle to prevent similar issues. This principle advises against using headphones or listening to loud music for more than 60 minutes at a time and avoiding exposure to environments louder than 60 decibels for extended periods. Additionally, it recommends keeping the volume of sound-producing devices below 60 per cent.

Ms. Wang’s case serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the potential risks associated with prolonged headphone use, even at moderate volumes. It underscores the importance of adopting healthy listening habits to preserve hearing health and mitigate the risk of permanent damage.

While headphones offer convenience and enjoyment, it’s crucial to exercise in moderation and prioritise ear health. Adhering to guidelines like the ’60’ principle can help individuals strike a balance between enjoying audio content and safeguarding their hearing for the long term.