Noise-cancelling headphones have become a must-have gadget for many, offering the ability to block out unwanted background noise while enjoying music or focusing in busy environments.
Over the past few years, sales have skyrocketed as more people look to escape the constant noise around them.
However, recent warnings from experts suggest that the overuse of these headphones could be having an unexpected impact on our hearing—ironically, the very thing they were designed to protect.
How Noise-Cancelling Headphones Work
Traditional earphones and headphones already provide a passive noise-cancelling effect by physically covering the ears and blocking out some sounds.
But newer, more advanced noise-cancelling devices, like Apple AirPods, offer active noise cancellation.
These gadgets use microphones to detect ambient noise and then create sound waves that counteract the noise, effectively cancelling it out.
The idea is to help users concentrate better or listen to music more clearly at lower volumes by filtering out external sounds.
While this technology offers undeniable convenience, experts are concerned that people are becoming too reliant on it, which could result in unintended consequences.
The concern is that constant use of noise-cancelling headphones might “rewire” the brain, making it harder to process and differentiate sounds when the headphones are off. This could lead to hearing difficulties, particularly for younger users.
Rising Cases of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
There has been a noticeable increase in the number of young people being referred to NHS audiology services for hearing issues.
Interestingly, when they undergo testing, their hearing appears to be fine.
Instead, the problem often lies in the brain’s ability to process sounds, a condition known as auditory processing disorder (APD).
APD makes it difficult to understand sounds, including spoken words, especially in noisy environments or when someone is speaking quickly.
Previously, APD was thought to be caused by brain injury or middle-ear infections, but audiologists are now questioning whether the rise in APD cases could be linked to the widespread use of noise-cancelling headphones. With more children presenting symptoms, experts are concerned that overuse of these devices might be a contributing factor.
Teenagers Are Particularly Vulnerable
Young people, particularly those in their teens, may be at greater risk.
According to Claire Benton, vice-president of the British Academy of Audiology, the brain’s ability to process complex sounds doesn’t fully develop until late teens or early twenties.
Wearing noise-cancelling headphones during these crucial years may delay the development of essential auditory processing skills.
Benton highlights a study from Hearing Diagnostics, which explored how different age groups process sounds.
Surprisingly, people over the age of 50 performed better on sound-processing tests than younger adults.
The under-30s in the study were heavy users of headphones, particularly noise-cancelling ones, often using them for several hours a day.
Benton theorizes that this extensive use could be impairing their ability to process sounds efficiently.
The Impact of Overusing Noise-Cancelling Headphones
When you wear noise-cancelling headphones, your brain is essentially being tricked into a “false environment,” where you only hear the sounds you want to hear, such as music or a podcast.
This lack of exposure to background noise means your brain doesn’t have to work as hard to process different sounds.
Benton compares it to skipping “leg day” at the gym; if you neglect a muscle group, it weakens over time.
Similarly, if you don’t regularly exercise the neural pathways that help you process sound, they may not function as effectively when you need them.
Franki Oliver, an audiology manager at The Royal National Institute for Deaf People, adds that the brain needs to hear a variety of sounds in order to focus on what’s important.
Too much artificial filtering could make it more difficult for the brain to differentiate sounds once the headphones come off, especially when normal sound levels resume.
Risks of Increasing the Volume on Headphones
Additionally, some newer earphones come with settings that allow users to boost the volume of certain sounds, like the main speaking voice, even further.
This essentially takes over a task that the brain would typically handle.
Over time, this could slow down the brain’s ability to respond to everyday sounds, particularly in situations where there is a lot of background noise.
Experts caution that while noise-cancelling headphones can offer protection from constant noise, they still pose a risk if the volume is turned up too high, which can lead to hearing damage.
How to Safely Use Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Although noise-cancelling technology isn’t inherently dangerous, it’s crucial to follow the World Health Organization’s guidelines for safe listening.
Experts recommend limiting headphone use to no more than 40 hours per week at a volume of 80 decibels or lower.
This level is roughly equivalent to 60% of your phone’s maximum volume or the noise level of a food blender.
While noise-cancelling headphones can be helpful for people who are overwhelmed by noise or need to focus in loud environments, moderation is key.
More research is needed to understand the full effects of prolonged use on hearing and brain function, especially in younger users who may be more vulnerable during their development years.
The Brain’s Plasticity and the Hope for Recovery
Despite the concerns, there is hope for those who experience auditory processing difficulties.
Benton notes that the brain is incredibly adaptable, and even people diagnosed with APD can improve their hearing abilities with the right training.
Reducing headphone use and re-exposing the brain to background noise can help strengthen those auditory pathways over time.
So, while it’s not necessary to give up noise-cancelling headphones entirely, experts recommend finding a balance.
Innovations in Noise-Cancelling Technology
One bright spot in the world of noise-cancelling headphones is the development of new features that help users maintain a better balance between filtered and external sounds.
Some newer models, for example, offer a “transparency” setting that allows users to hear some background noise while still enjoying the benefits of noise cancellation.
This could be a step toward maintaining the brain’s ability to process sounds without completely blocking out the outside world.
When to Avoid Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Although noise-cancelling headphones are great for reducing ambient noise in everyday situations, they’re not suitable for all environments.
Experts recommend avoiding them in extremely loud settings, such as concerts, where hearing protection is more important.
In these cases, traditional foam earplugs are more effective at preventing hearing damage.
Foam earplugs block out harmful sound vibrations that could otherwise damage the tiny hair cells in the inner ear, which are essential for hearing.
The Takeaway: Protect Your Hearing and Your Brain
If you regularly use noise-cancelling headphones and notice any difficulty hearing in everyday situations, it might be worth getting your ears checked. A GP can refer you to hearing services if necessary.
As for using headphones in general, the key takeaway is moderation—be mindful of how often and how loudly you listen, and make sure to give your ears and brain a break from the constant filtering.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance for both your hearing and your overall well-being.