The Rise of Noise-Cancelling Tech 

From morning commutes to working from home, noise-cancelling headphones have become an everyday essential. By reducing background noise, they let you enjoy music, podcasts, and calls without needing to crank up the volume. Sounds great, right? Well, not always. 

The Hidden Risks of Noise-Cancelling Headphones 

1. You Might Be Listening Louder Than You Think 

Because noise-cancelling technology blocks out external sound, you might assume your listening habits are safer. But studies show people often turn the volume higher than necessary without realising. Long-term exposure to loud sounds—especially anything over 85 decibels—can cause noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). 

2. Your Brain Could Be Working Harder 

We rely on environmental sounds more than we think. Total sound isolation can make it harder for your brain to adjust when you're not wearing headphones, affecting your ability to follow conversations in noisy spaces. 

3. Not All Noise-Cancelling Headphones Are Created Equal 

Some models use active noise cancellation (ANC), which generates sound waves to cancel out background noise. Others use passive noise isolation, simply blocking sound with padding. ANC can be effective, but prolonged exposure could alter how your ears process sound over time. 

So, What’s the Solution? 

No, you don’t have to ditch your headphones! Just follow these simple steps to keep your hearing safe: 

• Follow the 60/60 rule – Listen at 60% of maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time. 

• Give your ears a break – Take regular pauses to let your ears recover. 

• Choose the right pair – Look for headphones that balance noise reduction without complete isolation. 

• Get your hearing checked – If you find yourself turning up the volume more than usual, it might be time for a hearing test. 

Get Your Hearing Checked – At Any Age 

Hearing loss doesn’t just happen overnight – it’s often gradual and unnoticed. The good news? A simple hearing test can catch any early signs and help protect your hearing for years to come.  

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