Hearing Loss and Other Problems

Hearing loss is the most obvious problem headphones may create. But there are other issues that can crop up when hearing is affected. Here are four examples of problems caused by headphone damage to your hearing.

1)    Low self-esteem and other emotional issues – People with hearing loss are not stupid, but sometimes frustrated people equate the inability to hear with the inability to comprehend. That can lead to problems in personal communication and higher barriers to achievement.

2)    Lost job opportunities – Communication is essential to most jobs, whether it is instructions on warehouse operations or directions on when to turn in a project. If your communications are impaired, that can lead to lost job opportunities and a lack of advancement. Some fields that require good hearing – mass media journalism, operating public transportation and teaching, for example – may not be able to accommodate your physical limitations.

3)    Education setbacks – If you are hearing impaired, you may be placed in a special needs class. This can slow progress and lessen your challenges.

4)    Social barriers – Many social events take place in a crowded restaurant, hotel ballrooms or in large classrooms. An inability to hear can compromise your ability to participate fully in celebrations and limit your connections.

Several states have banned the use of headphones and ear buds while driving, and some are contemplating getting new laws passed that would ban them from pedestrian use as well. Lawmakers' concern is that any time you put your body in motion, distractions can increase the odds that you’ll collide with someone or something.