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.
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