Protecting Your Hearing When You Are a Musician

A musician losing their hearing is a tragic thought. Not only is making music difficult when you can’t hear (not everyone can be Beethoven!), but the rest of your life is negatively affected as well – everything from work to family time can suffer. If you are a musician, there are some things you should know about your hearing and how you can protect it. 

The damage may already be done

Have you noticed a ringing in your ears (tinnitus)? Does it seem like people mumble or don’t speak as loudly as they used to? Hearing loss doesn’t happen all at once – these may be signs that you are beginning to have hearing issues and it is time to do something. 

You should also know that it’s not just rock musicians who can do damage to their ears. Classical musicians are just as likely to have ear damage as musicians in rock bands. Violinists are especially susceptible to hearing damage, very often on the side where they rest their violin. 

Protect your ears!

Protect your hearing by:

• Wearing earplugs at every gig and every practice. They should fit snugly in your ears for optimum protection. (Earplugs are always a good idea when you are going to be in a loud environment – if you are attending a concert or even running the lawn mower.)
• Keeping the volume at an acceptable level. You can use an app on your phone or a dB meter to monitor the volume.
• Not listening to music too loudly when you are using headphones or in the car.
• Seeing an audiologist as soon as you notice any problems with your hearing or a ringing in your ears.

If you’ve ever been to a concert – even one in a small club – you know how loud it can be, even when you are far away from the stage. When you are up on stage playing it is even louder! If you are a musician you should take special steps to protect your hearing, and if you notice any problems call Lakeside Allergy ENT. Call (972) 771-5443 for an appointment at the Rockwall and Forney office.