Health experts have warned of increasing risks associated with excessive use of headphones and raising the volume for long periods, stressing that these habits may lead to permanent damage to hearing.
This warning comes in light of the widespread use of headphones and smartphones to listen to music, podcasts, and video clips, which has made them an essential part of the daily life of millions of users around the world.
Specialists point out that continuous exposure to loud sounds may lead to a gradual decline in hearing ability, in addition to the possibility of developing tinnitus, which are problems that are increasingly associated with the modern lifestyle.
On the other hand, technology companies are working to provide built-in tools within modern devices that aim to protect users from these risks by monitoring sound levels and alerting them when safe limits are exceeded.
iPhones and iPads provide a “Headphone Safety” feature, which monitors listening habits and issues alerts when levels that may harm hearing are exceeded, with the ability to automatically lower the volume when needed.
Google’s Pixel Buds also offer a “Hearing Wellness” feature, which allows users to track their listening patterns and get alerts when approaching dangerous sound levels.
Health institutions confirm that repeated exposure to loud noise is one of the most prominent causes of lifestyle-related hearing loss, stressing the importance of adhering to the “60-60” rule, that is, listening at 60% of the volume level for a period not exceeding 60 continuous minutes.
Experts stress that activating protective equipment and using headphones equipped with noise isolation can contribute significantly to reducing risks and maintaining hearing health in the long term.
