Constant ear-ringing could result from loud MP3s

Earphone use could result in severe damage

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Friday, 14, Nov 2008 11:33

Serious hearing damage could result from frequent listening to an MP3 player at a very high volume, European researchers have established.

Listening to MP3 players for over an hour a day at their highest volume could cause tinnitus, whose chief symptom is a constant ringing sensation in the ears.

This currently incurable condition is difficult to treat and can have a devastating impact on one's life, according to some who suffer from it.

The Royal National Institute for the Deaf is considering trying to implement volume limit restrictions on MP3 player manufacturers, though this controversial suggestion might not make much headway.

Approximately 2.3 million people in the UK suffer from tinnitus, 470,000 of which say it has a severe effect on their quality of life, according to Deafness Research UK.

Effective treatment is limited, so specialists mostly recommend prevention.