Responsible Listening
Caution! Avoid potential hearing loss by not exposing yourself to loud sounds for a prolonged period of time.
The risk of hearing loss increases as sound is played louder and for longer durations. The amount of sound produced by a portable audio device (including headsets, earbuds, and Bluetooth® or other wireless devices) varies depending on the nature of the sound, the device settings, and the headphones that are used. As a result, there is no single volume setting that is appropriate for everyone or for every combination of sound, settings and equipment.
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds (including music) is the most common cause of preventable hearing loss. Some scientific research suggests that using portable audio devices, such as portable music players and devices, at high volume settings for long durations may lead to permanent
Exposure to very loud sound has also been associated in some studies with tinnitus (a ringing in the ear), hypersensitivity to sound, and distorted hearing.
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