~Riddle: What is painless, odorless, tasteless, invisible, and toxic? Noise-induced hearing loss.

There are two pieces of standard equipment that musicians and singers sometimes take for granted - your ears. The fact is that hearing loss is a very real threat to every one but especially so to tuneheads. And whether you are into music for fun or apiring to a professional music career, your ears are not replaceable. Repeated exposure to loud noises including music can permanently damage your hearing and once it's gone - it's gone.

Noise causes nerve deafness by damaging hair cells in your inner ears. It's usually painless and develops slowly. You may experience ringing in your ears that goes away. Then you expose yourself again and get permanent hearing loss.

Volume - loudness and the length of time you're exposed affect the amount of damage. The louder the noise - the less time it takes. Keep this in mind any time you are around loud noises including music.

Protect those wonderful ears.

~ If others can hear the lyrics from your headphones or ear buds - your ears are at risk.

~A rock concert noise level is equal to a chainsaw.

~Use ear protection such as ear plugs to protect yourself from loud and/or long noises. There are several types of plugs that discreetly fit inside your ears. Some on the market now do not filter out the highs and lows but just reduce the volume.

~Have your hearing checked by a professional. Many times you can get a free hearing screening.

Musicians and hearing loss is serious. Treat your ears as precious equipment and enjoy the music.



[This message has been edited by Taike (edited 05-14-2007).]