When hearing problems come to mind, many people still think of older people. Of grandpa putting the TV on airplane mode, or grandma asking you to repeat that last one. But the numbers tell a different story: more and more young people are struggling with hearing damage. And that’s worrisome – because once you lose your hearing, it doesn’t come back.
Why is it that hearing problems in young people are on the rise? In this blog we dive into the causes, signs and what you can do to better protect your (or your child’s) hearing.
The numbers: a growing group with silent complaints
Various studies show that 1 in 7 young people between the ages of 12 and 25 have already suffered hearing damage. Sometimes it is a mild form of hearing loss, sometimes permanent tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and increasingly, hypersensitivity to sound(hyperacusis).
And the tricky thing is: You often don’t notice hearing damage until it’s too late. Your ears don’t immediately protest with pain or alarm bells. They simply become overloaded – and this is happening faster and faster these days.
The big culprit: loud music
You probably saw it coming. Earplugs are still the exception rather than the rule at a festival or concert, especially among young people. Many young people stand for hours in the noise, right in front of the speakers, without protection. The result? A ringing in the ears afterwards. That squeak is not “normal,” but a signal that your ears have gone over their heads.
And then there are headphones. On average, young people spend several hours a day listening to music, podcasts or videos through earbuds or headphones. Not infrequently at a volume above the safe limit of 85 decibels. Especially in crowded environments (public transportation, schoolyard), the volume goes up to drown out other sounds.
More than just music
Besides music, other factors contribute to hearing problems in young people:
- Noise at school or work: think engineering classes, school parties, catering or construction jobs.
- Gaming with headset: prolonged gaming with the volume high creates constant sound pressure on the ears.
- Stress and fatigue: these make hearing more sensitive and increase the risk of tinnitus.
- Poor ear health: frequent use of cotton swabs, ear infections or improperly functioning Eustachian tube can contribute to hearing problems.
Why young people are more vulnerable than you think
The ear is a sophisticated system, with cilia in the inner ear that convert sound waves into signals for the brain. Those cilia are fragile – and get damaged when overused. Young people may have fresher hearing, but that doesn’t mean it’s stronger. On the contrary: precisely because they recognize fewer warning signals, they take risks faster.
Moreover, there is often little awareness of hearing protection at a young age. Hearing damage is seen as “a problem for later. While the damage is already accumulating now.
What are the first signs of hearing damage?
Many young people do not realize they have hearing damage. The signs are often subtle:
- A squeak or buzz in the ear (especially after a party or festival).
- Sounds that sound duller.
- Difficulty following conversations in crowded environments.
- Sensitivity to loud or sharp sounds.
- More quickly tired or overstimulated by noise.
If these signs keep coming back, it is wise to have your hearing tested. Because even if you are young, you may benefit from support or assistive devices.
What can you do to prevent hearing problems?
Fortunately, there is much you can do – without having to turn your life upside down. It’s all about awareness as well as protection:
1. Use earplugs with loud music
And we don’t mean those free foam things, but earplugs with a music filter. These muffle sound without distorting the music. They are discreet, comfortable and often last for years.
2. Limit the volume on your headphones
The rule of thumb: no louder than 60% of maximum volume, and no longer than 60 minutes at a time. Many phones now have a volume limiter or alert when the volume is too loud. Turn that on!
3. Insert listening breaks
Give your ears a rest once in a while. After a night out or a long listening session, a few hours of silence is really important for your recovery.
4. Opt for noise-cancelling headphones
It filters out ambient noise, so you don’t have to turn up the volume in noisy environments. A good investment for those who are often on the road or studying in noise.
5. Talk about it
Hearing damage in young people is still often a taboo subject or something to be joked about. But it deserves serious attention. Discuss it at school, at home or in your group of friends. Show that protection is actually smart – not dull.
Also important: mental impact of hearing problems
For young people, hearing is essential for social contact, school and work. Hearing damage can lead to isolation, insecurity or even feelings of depression. Especially tinnitus is perceived by young people as profound – the constant noise in your head cannot be turned off, and it can be mentally demanding.
That’s why it’s so important to spot hearing problems early and discuss them. The earlier you get there, the better you can prevent further damage.
Conclusion: young and careful of your ears
Hearing problems are no longer just a “later” thing. Young people today are already at risk – often without knowing it. But there is also good news: good protection is simple and effective. Earplugs, conscious listening and taking breaks make a world of difference.
Instead of normalizing hearing loss, let’s encourage prevention. Because music, parties and headphones are wonderful – without sacrificing your hearing for it.
Looking for hearing protection that young people do want to wear? In our webshop you will find comfortable, stylish and effective earplugs for festivals, music and everyday use. Suitable for every age – and every lifestyle.
