Why Musicians Struggle with Hearing Health

Musicians rely on their ears to make a livelihood. But the nature of their career puts them at an increased risk for hearing loss and tinnitus.

According to the Hearing Health Foundation, musicians are 400% more likely to have hearing loss than the public. So, musicians need to protect their ears from dangerous noise levels if they want to continue to perform.  

Hearing Loss and Tinnitus in Musicians

Instruments, amps, audio feedback and cheering crowds create a dangerously loud environment that will cause irreversible hearing damage. Short- or long-term exposure to sounds over 85 decibels can permanently damage hearing, so it’s common for musicians to experience noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Tinnitus, which often accompanies hearing loss, is characterized by a ringing, buzzing or whooshing sound that’s only perceived by the affected individual. It’s caused by damage to the delicate hair cells of the inner ear. Once compromised, those hair cells cannot repair themselves or regrow.

While up to 15% of the general population has tinnitus, roughly 30% to 50% of musicians develop the condition.

The Emotional and Physical Toll of Tinnitus

Ringing ears are a nuisance, but they’re especially problematic for musicians. Performing artists need their ears to refine their skills and perfect their craft.

They’re often hypersensitive to sounds, heightening their perception of tinnitus symptoms, which may be influenced by certain sounds and tones.

Physical side effects include:

• Ear pain
• Increased heart rate
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Insomnia

Emotional effects of tinnitus:

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Poor concentration
• Depression and anxiety
• Distress

Take it From Them

There are dozens of famous musicians with hearing loss and tinnitus. Recognizable names include Eddie Vedder, Ozzy Osborne, Phil Collins, Sting and Bono.

Read what other well-known artists had to say about their hearing conditions:

• Eric Clapton: “I started using Fender Deluxe Reverb amps and 50-watt Marshalls around ’97. I started having some problems with tinnitus. It was my own doing – being irresponsible and thinking I was invincible. Take care and wear plugs.”
• Pete Townsend: “I have severe hearing damage. It’s manifested itself as tinnitus…It hurts, it’s painful, and it’s frustrating.”
• Neil Young: “I made ‘Harvest Moon’ because I didn’t want to hear any loud sounds. I still have a little bit of tinnitus…My hearing’s not perfect, but it’s okay.”

A Musician’s Guide to Protecting Their Hearing

It may take time to come to terms with your condition, but you can take precautions to prevent further damage.

Determine which sounds trigger your discomfort: Your tinnitus may be affected by specific pitches. Tracking your daily symptoms will help you identify your triggers so you can create a strategy to limit your exposure.

Wear hearing protection: Disposable earplugs are available at almost any drugstore. You may also consider purchasing musician’s earplugs designed to protect hearing without obscuring important sounds.

Take a listening break: Find time to step away from rehearsals and performances so your ears can recover. Limiting your exposure to loud sounds will protect your hair cells from further damage.

Consider hearing aids: Modern hearing devices come with unique programming for listening to music. Some hearing aids also offer masking settings that ease tinnitus symptoms.

The expert team at Audiology & Hearing Aid Solutions can help you find the right treatment option to address your unique hearing loss needs. Call 888.473.8702 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.