Impact on Hearing Due to Prolonged Use of Audio Devices: A Literature Review

Perpetuated exposure to higher decibels is one of the leading causes of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). The occurrence of NIHL has likewise been expanding in kids and adolescents. NIHL in youngsters and adolescents is connected with personal music players, which need earphones or headphones, and have powerful sound tones. The effects of such leisure activities and their relation to NIHL remains poorly studied. Various studies have been conducted to establish the degree of correlation between audio device usage and hearing disablement; recent studies show more agreeable data about the same. Therefore, the use of earphones and their effects on hearing needs to be well assessed, considering the high prevalence of the problem and the relative lack of literature for the same. The intent of the following review is to gather information regarding the manifestations of impairment in hearing due to audio devices with the objective to assess the correlation between hearing impairment and the use of audio devices. Also, guidelines established by Central Pollution Control Board regarding noise pollution need to be revised as per the present-day setting. The implementation of these guidelines is the responsibility of the companies that design and produce different types of audio devices. These devices should be made ear-safe according to standard safety guidelines related to hearing impairment from loud noise. This review has taken into consideration 23 authentic studies from all around the globe that state a positive or negative result after studying the correlation between NIHL and long-term noise exposure. The findings of this narrative review indicate that leisure activities involving the use of audio devices pose a risk of NIHL, and a need for further research in this domain is seen, given the ubiquitous and ever-increasing nature of their consumption.