Headphones for sounds have become increasingly popular, especially with younger generations, for their ability to block ambient noise and improve the listening experience. Long distance flights, public transport and open offices all use headphones over-ear; Concert visitors, bartenders all appear colored earplugs. Everyone seems to wear headphones as a required item for public spaces, whether they are celebrities or ordinary people.
As a result, the market for noise -suppressing headphones is worth billions of dollars worldwide and is expected to continue to grow. However, would it damage our eardrums, or is it just an accessory for our comfort and crystal clear sound? Well, researchers and scientists think it will have an adverse effect.
A report from the BBC suggests that noise -suppressing headphones play an important role in the hearing problems of young people.
According to the report, Sophie, a 25-year-old administrative assistant from London, met a private audiologist for ear tests. She was eventually diagnosed with auditory processing disorder (APD), a neurological disorder in which the brain finds it difficult to understand sounds and spoken words.
The cause of Sophie's APD diagnosis is unknown, but her audiologist believes that the excessive use of noise-suppressing headphones, which Sophie carries up to five hours a day, can play a role.
Other audiologists agree and say that more research is needed into the possible effects of their long -term use.
It is now common to see people walk outside who wear their noise -suppressing headphones and watch videos online with subtitles, despite the fact that the sound is heard perfectly. A Yougov survey showed that 61% of the 18-24 year olds prefer to watch TV with the subtitles.
Dr. Angela Alexander, audiologist and owner of APD Support, a private organization, is one of the audiologists who called for more research into the impact of sound still telephones on auditory processing, especially in children.
“What does the future look like if we don't investigate this link? There are many well -meaning parents and teachers who think the answer to children who have problems with noise is to wear earplugs or have headphones,” she said BBC.
Dr. Amjad Mahmood, the head of audiology in Great Ormond Street Hospital, supported the call for more research.
He said there had been a “significant increase in question” for reviews in the big APD clinic of the hospital for under 16 years of age. “Especially with difficulties at school”.
