If you’re a musician, the thought of losing your hearing is an upsetting one. Not being able to hear music in the same way, whether while playing or listening to a new record you just picked up at Memory Music & Books would negatively impact your enjoyment of life.
Unfortunately, musicians are at a greater risk of experiencing noise-induced hearing loss. This type of hearing loss occurs when exposure to loud sounds damages the hair cells of the inner ear known as stereocilia. These hair cells play a critical role in hearing, and once they are damaged, they do not regenerate, leading to permanent hearing loss.
Hearing Risks for Musicians
A 2017 study examined 125 musicians with at least five years of professional experience and had them undergo audiometric examinations. Among the study’s findings were that:
- 19.2% had bilateral hearing loss
- 51% reported a history of tinnitus after performing
- 28% reported ear pain during performing
- Less than 2% said they used hearing protection devices
Signs of Hearing Loss
While hearing loss can sometimes be sudden, it is most often gradual. It can take a while before you even realize you are experiencing it, which is why it is important to know some of the early signs so you can be proactive in addressing your hearing health.
Some early signs include:
- You have trouble following conversations in groups of people, especially when there is background noise
- Others comment on the volume when you listen to music or watch TV
- You often feel like people mumble or you need them to repeat themselves
- You experience tinnitus (or ringing in the ears)
- You notice that you seem to have more trouble hearing out of one ear than the other
- Loud noises are starting to cause discomfort
How to Protect Your Ears
Thankfully there are steps you can take to protect your ears and prevent damage or limit additional damage to your hearing.
One of the best things you can do for your ears is to wear earplugs while playing music. You can get musician’s earplugs which are specifically designed to help block out the harmful decibel levels of concerts while still allowing you to hear music clearly.
If you are worried that you might already be experiencing hearing loss, make an appointment with an audiologist as soon as you can. They can test your hearing and determine if any hearing loss has occurred, as well as offer treatment solutions, like hearing aids, that will help prevent further damage.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with an expert, call Advanced Hearing today.