Are you like many people enjoying your favorite music on a popular MP3 player like the iPod? Are you finding that the convenience of this little device lets you listen more frequently? Are you fascinated with the quality of sound that the device offers especially when you turn up the volume? If so, a noise-induced hearing loss may be creeping up on you.

Although there is no current evidence directly linking iPods with hearing loss, current available research does show that excessive noise levels over a period of time cause permanent hearing loss. Noise induced hearing loss can occur at about level 5 (100 dB) on the device in about 15 minutes according to NIOSH and CDC.

Earbud headphones allow outside noise to be heard and this sends messages to the listener to raise the volume. Since iPods are so convenient to use, and so discreet (the device can easily be tucked into a pocket), people are using them more often. This combination of frequent use and increased volume could eventually cause permanent hearing loss.

So, should you get rid of your iPod? In reality, that it is probably unlikely. Instead, here are four tips to remember while using your iPod.

1. Limit the amount of time that you use the device. Set personal limits of one hour a day.

2. Keep the volume down to 65-70 decibels, which is the level of normal conversation. At this time, there is no way to set loudness restrictions on the device. Note that turning up the volume by 10 decibels can be the difference between a loud motorcycle (90 dB) and an alarm clock (80 dB).

3. Invest in noise-canceling headphones. These headphones shut out background noise (for example, airplane noise) and allow the listener to listen to music at lower decibel levels. However, they are more expensive. Headphones that cover the entire ear (instead of insertable earbud) are safe and affordable over the long run.

4. Hold off on letting your children own an iPod. If they already have one, limit the use and monitor the loudness levels. As small as these devices are, it is easy to pop in the earbuds and listen while in the car, on the bus, etc. If you can hear their music from a few feet away, the volume is too high.

It is unlikely that our interest and fascination with iPods is going to go away. The best way to ensure healthy hearing is to limit iPod use and continue to use old fashioned methods of listening to your favorite tunes!

Copyright (c) 2008 Lynda Stucky