How can hearing protection help musicians hear? Clarity has answers!
Musicians of all genres make life more meaningful through sound, but it is that very sound that could potentially make it harder for musicians to hear. According to various studies, hearing loss in musicians is more prevalent than one might think, resulting in significant percentages of tinnitus, hyperacusis, and hearing loss. For example, one study in Finland found that 15% of its musician participants suffered from permanent tinnitus, and 43% endured hyperacusis, or noise sensitivity. Below is a look at why musicians need hearing protection and how Clarity Audiology can help.
About Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Whether they are classical or heavy metal musicians, all can suffer from noise-induced hearing loss over time. Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common types of hearing loss. It can happen due to an instantaneous, loud noise, or from continuous, moderate noise exposure over time. Noises above 120 decibels can cause immediate damage, while those over 70 dB can begin the process. Musicians can begin to develop hearing loss as soon as they begin having music lessons and band or orchestra practices in school. Years of performing on stage can also have the same effect.
Classical Musicians More at Risk?
With their amps and loud characteristics, rock, heavy metal, and other similar genres of music might seem to induce hearing loss more readily than classical music. However, you would be mistaken. The Finnish study mentioned at the introduction of this post was limited to classical musicians. It turns out that consistent moderate noise exposure puts orchestral musicians at a risk either at the same level or higher than other types of musicians. The result was a group of professionals who found work to be noisy and stressful, but very few actually did anything to protect their hearing.
Hearing Protection for Musicians
Hearing protection designed for musicians can improve one’s hearing health and still enable one to achieve excellent musicality. The hearing devices filter out sound enough to protect the inner ear, but let in enough for the musician to hear himself and the orchestra. Clarity Audiology provides hearing protection for musicians, as well as hearing devices for those suffering from hearing loss and other hearing disorders. Learn more about our Hearing Protection Program and contact us for more details!
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
You can call us today to schedule a FREE Hearing Protection Consultation at 410-698-6594! For more blog posts, news, and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.