Hearing Loss From Personal MP3 Players
The Dangers of MP3 Players
Earlier, when people walked on the roads, they would observe many things, talk to known people and strangers as well at times, but now it is very common to see them going around like zombies listening to music all the time. Continuous noise from personal music systems can irritate others who travel by public modes of transport.
A scientific study made by the European Union reveals that continuous exposure to such MP3 players can cause permanent hearing impairment. The study comprising nine experts has warned the youngsters that those who continue to listen for five hours a week at high decibels, are actually experiencing more noise than what is produced in the loudest industry, which is even comparable to the take-off sound of an aeroplane close by. The youngsters may not understand the ill effects now, but they will have to face the repercussions later in the form of hearing loss and tinnitus. Not only youngsters, but many older people are not lagging behind in this aspect. It is reported that 50 million to 100 million older people across various countries in Europe could be exposing themselves to continued noise emanating from portable music players.
The Apple Company whose music players such as the the iPod are alleged to produce higher decibels than required, have already warned their customers about the danger of hearing loss with continued use of iPods. Youngsters continually exposed to such high music for long periods, could be deaf by the time they are in their mid twenties and there are already reports of tinnitus triggered by these music players, leading to the inference that there is a correlation between these personal music players and tinnitus.
Safety measures should be be put in place to check the rampant use and thus reduce hearing loss tinnitus. These music players work two ways. They could divert you from the monotony of your work and reduce boredom. Apart from inducing hearing loss, they could also distract you and come in the way of productive work or divert your attention while driving vehicles etc., which could be disastrous.
