Everyone loves to crank their favorite tunes as loudly as possible. Whether it’s in the car, at the house or at a concert, people are drawn to loud music. What most people don’t know, however, is that doing this can lead to severe hearing problems in the long run. Loud music or blasts of sounds can actually rupture your eardrum, creating a tear or hole in the thin skin in your inner ear that can lead to infection, even permanent hearing loss. Clearly rocking out safely is important, and there are several ways to enjoy your tunes and protect your hearing.

Concert Care
Concerts are some of the most dangerous places for your ears. They are environments where fans are packed together, screaming and trying to get close to the stage. As fans try to get closer to their favorite artists, they are also creeping closer to huge amplifiers pumping out sound.

Do yourself a favor and buck that trend. Pick a strategic location in the venue. Staying away from the direct proximity of a loud speaker can actually allow you to hear each element of the music better, which means your overall concert experience will be better.

If necessary, wear earplugs. There are very discreet plugs for sale, which neither muffle nor block sound. Rather, they allow you to hear at a lower volume – which is why they’re such a hit among musicians.  A bonus is that most likely no one will even know you’re wearing them.

Stay away from other loud fans. A scream directly next to your ear can be more damaging than the music. Also, try to avoid screaming over the music to converse with those around you.

Take breaks from the concert. Take advantage of a set change or a break between songs to go to the bathroom or step outside. Giving your ears just a few minutes without deafening noise will do some good. If your ears are ringing, take a little extra time. This also goes for a loud bar or club setting – you may not realize the blaring music at your favorite hangout is hurting your ears, but prolonged exposure to sounds that are above decibels that you are used to hearing can do permanent damage.

iProblems
Concerts aren’t the only way your ears can suffer injury. A common mistake is cranking iPod earbuds too loudly. As these earbuds are nestled directly next to your eardrums, severe damage can be done without you realizing.

Do a simple test: Are you living in your own iBubble? If you can’t hear a single thing around you apart from what is being transmitted through those earbuds, your music is too loud. Ask the person next to you if they can hear the music coming from your earbuds while you are wearing them. If so, turn it down to a level to where you can just hear the people around you through your music. You may not want to hear their conversations, but they probably don’t want to hear your music. Not only are you being courteous, you are also saving yourself some pain in the future.

As with concerts, limited exposure is also necessary. Listening to your iPod on high all day everyday can’t possibly be good for you. When used sparingly and correctly, listening to music doesn’t have to be dangerous.