Facts
Hearing loss can been found in over:
In addition, over 80% of musicians, when tested just after a performance will have a temporary music-induced hearing loss.
The Intensity Of Music
The two major characteristics of sound are intensity and frequency. Intensity, generally perceived as loudness, is measured in decibels (dB), on a logarithmic scale. This means that 90 dB is 10 times more intense than 80 db; 100 dB is 100 times more intense than 80 dB. The sound intensity doubles with every increase of 3 dB. Small increases in decibel level can involve a large increase in actual sound intensity. Frequency, generally perceived as pitch, is measured in cycles per second or Hertz (Hz). The normal human ear can detect frequencies in the range of 16 Hz to 20,000 Hz. The normal speech range is 250-4000 Hz.
Eight hours of exposure to music (or any sound) that reaches a decibel level of 85 can cause permanent damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. For each doubling of sound (3dB) damage is done in half the amount of time.
Strategies to Reduce Music Exposure
As a musician or fan of live music, there are a number of preventive measures you can take to protect your hearing.
- Make sure to take a few breaks. Giving your ears the opportunity to rest for at least 15 minutes in a quiet environment is critical to their well being.
- Have regular check-ups with an Audiologist at Accent.
- Wear earplugs to reduce overall noise level exposure. There are earplugs specifically designed for musicians.
Contact Us
Musician’s earplugs are designed to replicate the natural response of sound. As a result, the sounds that you hear are the same quality as the original – only quieter. But because direct pressure to the ears is reduced, the level of damage is reduced. These are custom products made to fit a specific individual, so ear impressions are required.