Unsafe Listening Habits Via Earphones Can Cause Ear Infections

News Desk

Islamabad: Around a billion youngsters across the globe, including Pakistan, could be at risk of hearing loss because of unsafe listening habits through earphones, said ENT (ear, nose, and throat) Specialist Dr Saifullah Mir.

Sharing headphones with friends & family members are extremely risky: ENT Specialist Dr Saifullah Mir

Dr Saifullah Mir further explained that using earphones has become rather prevalent in the current digital age. It has been noted that some people share their headphones with friends and family members which is extremely risky, he added.

The health expert on Saturday stressed awareness for youngsters using earphones as long-term exposure to loud music makes the hair cells eventually lose their sensitivity to vibration and asked to avoid sharing earphones which will lead to infection from one person to another.

Ear problems are not just related to working professionals; school children are also having such complaints: Dr Mir

The ENT Specialist stated that Air Pods and earphones have undoubtedly become necessary accoutrements for modern living, but they are also contributing to ear infections.

Dr Saifullah further explained that ears producing wax can protect the skin of the canal, help in cleaning and lubrication, and also provide protection from dust and other foreign particles.

If youngsters are using headphones at a sound level of more than 60 decibels, it will naturally put a strain on their hearing power: Dr Mir

The specialist suggested switching to over-ear alternatives instead since people should give their ears a chance to clean themselves, Dr Mir noted, adding that the ability to listen is also being weakened by long periods of time spent listening at a louder volume.

Replying to a query, he replied that ear problems are not just related to working professionals; schoolchildren who have to attend online classes are also having such complaints.

People should regularly sanitise their headphones to prevent a buildup of bacteria, sweat, and shed skin: Dr Saifullah Mir

“If youngsters are using headphones at a sound level of more than 60 decibels, it will naturally put a strain on their hearing power,” he stated.

The ENT expert also suggested that people should regularly sanitise the headphones to prevent a buildup of bacteria, sweat, and shed skin.