GoKawiilAudiologists warn earbuds can cause hearing loss, ear infections and wax buildup
Audiologists interviewed for a health report say prolonged earbud use can trap heat and moisture in the ear canal, push earwax deeper and cause irritation from poor fit. They also warn that high-volume, long-duration listening through earbuds can permanently damage inner-ear hair cells, leading to noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus and heightened sound sensitivity. Dr. Ruth Reisman, a New York-based audiologist, said she has observed all these issues over 15 years of practice.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The warnings suggest that a device most people use daily without a second thought carries cumulative health risks that build up gradually, making them easy to overlook until damage is done. Experts' comments imply that habits like raising volume to block out background noise, especially without noise cancellation, could be quietly accelerating hearing damage for many users.
- Earbuds can trap heat/moisture and push earwax deeper, raising infection and impaction risk.
- High volume and long listening sessions can permanently damage inner-ear hair cells.
- Lack of noise cancellation may lead users to raise volume dangerously to drown out ambient sound.
JBL Tune 510BT Wireless Over-Ear Headphones — Since the article highlights how earbuds can trap moisture, push wax deeper, and irritate the ear canal, switching to comfortable over-ear headphones is a simple way to protect your hearing. Over-ear designs rest around the ear rather than inside the canal, reducing the risks discussed in the article while still delivering wireless convenience.
See JBL Tune 510BT Wireless Over-Ear Headphones on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: cnet.com — Anna Gragert, 2026-09-27
Published there as: “Are Your Earbuds Damaging Your Ears? Look Out for These Warning Signs”
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