May 5, 2008 (Vol. 7, No. 8)

Beware of Music and Hearing Loss

Lehman's Department of Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences reminds the campus community that listening to music at high volumes for long periods of time can lead to noise-induced hearing loss (N.I.H.L.). Sensitive structures in the inner ear can be damaged by loud music, which can lead to speech sounding "muffled." Those with N.I.H.L. often ask people to repeat what they are saying. This form of hearing loss may or may not be accompanied by tinnitus—a ringing, buzzing, or fluttering in one or both hears.

N.I.H.L. can be prevented by listening to music with moderation. Turning down the volume on your iPod or other music device and not listening for longer than ninety minutes at maximum volume can reduce the risk of hearing loss. Boosting the bass in your music also can help, since low-frequency sounds are perceived as louder at lower volumes.

For more information, contact the Department of Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences at 718-960-8138, or visit Room 228 in the Speech and Theatre Building.

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