Even audiologists admit it is exhilarating to feel encompassed by loud music. However, we also know that sustained sound at or above 85 decibels can damage your hearing.
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According to HealthLink BC, common sounds heard at 85 decibels include heavy traffic, a window air conditioner, a noisy restaurant and a power lawn mower. A rock concert can reach around 120 decibels, which is definitely damaging for both the audience and the musicians.[1] In fact, according to an article by the Hearing Health Foundation (HHF), “Professional musicians are almost four times as likely to develop noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) as the general public.” The HHF also says that musicians are “57% more likely to develop tinnitus.”[2] A full range of undamaged hearing is vital for those playing music as well as those listening to it.
To ensure that you do not miss out on a single note, ESHC encourages our musicians and music lovers to come in and measure their baseline hearing ability. In addition, if you are already suffering from the effects of music-induced tinnitus, we can help you manage your symptoms.
If you love playing or listening to music, we urge you to see us on a yearly basis to check on your hearing.
[1] Healthwise Staff. (2019). Harmful noise levels. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/tf4173
[2] Heche, M. (2016). Musicians. Retrieved May 11, 2021, from https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/musicians