In today’s fast-paced world, loud music and earbuds have become a common escape for many. But experts warn that these habits could be silently stealing your ability to hear and damage your Ear Health. Whether it’s the blaring sound of music on your commute or the hum of city life, your ears endure more than they can handle daily.

Ear specialists are raising alarms about the growing threat of hearing loss caused by high-decibel music, particularly through earbuds. One expert emphasizes, “Hearing loss develops gradually, making it hard to notice until it’s too late. Once damaged, your hearing cannot fully recover.”

Turn Down the Volume – Here’s Why

Loud music disrupts the delicate balance of your eardrum. Prolonged exposure to sound over 85 decibels—a level similar to a vacuum cleaner—can cause permanent damage. High-decibel sound impacts the eardrum’s elasticity and damages hair cells in the inner ear, leading to irreversible hearing loss.

“When music volume hits 100 decibels, like a lawnmower’s noise, even brief exposure can harm your hearing,” says the expert. The recommendation? Keep music below 60 decibels, about the volume of a library conversation.

Take Listening Breaks

Constant exposure worsens the damage. If you’re listening for more than an hour, pause and rest your ears. Regular breaks allow your ears to recover from the strain of even moderate sound levels.

Protect Your Ear Health in Loud Environments

Beyond music, loud workplaces and noisy environments contribute to hearing damage. Earplugs can shield your ears in high-noise areas. “If you work in a loud factory or attend concerts regularly, ear protection isn’t optional—it’s essential,” warns the expert.

Stop Using Cotton Swabs for Ear Cleaning

Another everyday habit harming ear health is using cotton swabs or similar tools. Scratching or cleaning with objects like matchsticks or swabs can tear your eardrum or cause infections.

“Using cotton swabs remains a significant cause of eardrum tears and outer ear infections,” cautions the specialist. Opt for safer cleaning practices for Ear Health, such as rinsing your ears during a shower.

When Surgery Becomes the Last Resort

In severe cases, untreated infections or injuries can lead to chronic damage. Surgery may be required to repair the eardrum using cartilage or tissue grafts. Early treatment with antibiotics can prevent complications, but neglect could lead to permanent damage.