Noise-induced hearing loss is an occupational hazard for musicians, sound engineers, and related professionals. For example, 30 to 50 percent of professional musicians have tinnitus caused by hearing loss.
“Professional musicians often don’t know that it’s too loud… When you’re playing music for a number of years at a certain volume, the body can become accustomed to that level as the norm, and it no longer sounds loud to them. —Melissa Heche, AuD, CCC-SLP/A, Clinical Voice and Swallowing Pathologist at New York Speech and Hearing
Why it matters
Noise-induced hearing loss changes the perception of sound, compromising musicians’ performance ability. It can be career-ending.
“If your career is based on being able to hear sound and create music, there is an emotional intensity when you suffer hearing loss. Many who do suffer in isolation for fear of reputational risk.” —Glenn Schweitzer, reported in The Hearing Journal, April 2023
What to do
Audiologists know how to prevent and treat musicians’ hearing loss. For example, the following comprise a comprehensive plan:
- Routine hearing screenings are valuable for spotting changes in hearing.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss protects musicians from more permanent damage, safeguarding their careers.
- Hearing protection is crucial and can be tailored to the types of music, instruments, and venues. Proper hearing protection doesn’t compromise performance or sound quality.
- **Counseling and therapy help musicians adjust to hearing loss.
“OSHA requires that any time there has been a change in an employee’s hearing it is classified as a company injury that is formally reported, necessitating a look at hearing protection to make sure the employee has properly fitting hearing protection and that they face no undue risk from their job. Musicians are exposed to loud noises, and there is no one there to regulate decibels or provide hearing protection, putting professionals in the music industry at far more risk.” —Dr. Heche, The Hearing Journal
The takeaway
- If you’re a musician, amateur, or professional, hearing protection is necessary for performing today and in the future — and for your hearing-and-brain health.
- Consult an audiologist to discover the hearing-protection options best for you.
Protect your hearing
Find out if you have hearing loss. Don’t guess. Call to schedule a free, 15-minute hearing screening with an audiologist.
If you have hearing loss, your audiologist will explain —
- How much hearing you've lost
- Whether your hearing needs treatment
- Hearing-aid options
- Hearing protection best suited to your needs
Crest Hill: 630-633-5060 | Palos Hills: 708-599-9500
