A wellness writer who experienced hearing loss in early 2025 consulted audiologists about potential dangers from earbuds. Experts highlighted risks like noise-induced hearing loss and infections from prolonged use. They recommended safer listening habits to protect ear health.
In early 2025, a wellness writer faced hearing loss from eustachian tube dysfunction, prompting a review of daily habits including earbud use. Consulting experts revealed several risks associated with earbuds. Dr. Ruth Reisman, a licensed audiologist in New York with 15 years of experience, noted that earbuds can trap heat and moisture, raising infection risks, push earwax deeper causing buildup, and irritate the ear canal if ill-fitting or worn too long.
The primary concern, according to Reisman, is noise-induced hearing loss from high volumes or extended listening: “Earbuds sit directly in the ear canal, which can increase several risks. The biggest concern is noise-induced hearing loss if volume is too high or listening time is too long.” Dan Troast, an audiologist at HearUSA, explained that high-volume exposure damages inner ear hair cells, potentially leading to tinnitus, ringing or buzzing in the ears, and sound sensitivity. Without noise cancellation, users often increase volume to block background noise, entering unsafe levels quickly.
Troast added, “Early signs of overexposure include temporary muffled hearing or ringing after listening sessions—both are warning signals from the auditory system.” On radiation concerns from Bluetooth earbuds, Reisman stated, “Current scientific evidence doesn't show that the energy from Bluetooth earbuds causes harm,” emphasizing that sound exposure poses a greater threat than the low radiation levels, which are below safety limits and less than cell phones.
To mitigate risks, both experts endorse the 60/60 rule: limit volume to 60% of maximum and sessions to 60 minutes. Reisman advises 15- to 20-minute breaks per hour of use, noting, “Daily use is fine if the volume stays safe and ears are given time to rest.” Devices like iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad offer features such as headphone notifications for exposure limits, like 80 decibels for 40 hours over seven days, and automatic volume reduction.
Over-the-ear headphones are generally safer, sitting outside the canal and reducing direct sound concentration, per Reisman. Troast agreed, “Over-the-ear headphones can be safer—if they allow for lower listening volumes,” particularly noise-canceling models that prevent volume increases in noisy settings. Open earbuds, using bone-conduction technology, avoid canal insertion, minimizing moisture buildup, debris transfer, and earwax impaction, as noted by CNET's David Carnoy: “Several headphone companies claim open earbuds are better for your hearing health and are more hygienic.”
Additional tips include using volume limits on smartphones, opting for noise-canceling options, taking breaks, avoiding sleep use, and getting baseline hearing tests. Keeping earbuds clean, ensuring proper fit with varied tip sizes, and addressing allergies to materials are also recommended. For symptoms like ringing, muffled hearing, or pain, consulting an audiologist is advised. Reisman concluded, “Hearing damage is gradual and cumulative, but it’s also largely preventable with smart and healthy listening habits.”
