Game On, Volume Down: Study Urges Gamers to Protect Their Ears

Time flies when you’re having fun—especially when playing video games. 

But spending too many hours advancing through the Flower Kingdom in “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” or scoring touchdowns in “Madden NFL 24” could have an unexpected side effect. Recent research has found that individuals who play video games regularly are at a higher risk for hearing loss and tinnitus. 

What the Research Found 

The systematic scoping review, which included 14 studies totaling 54,000 adults and children worldwide, concluded that when people play video games, the average measured sound levels nearly surpassed or surpassed recommended sound exposure limits.  

According to Dr. Lauren Dillard, one of the review’s authors, the evidence suggested that “those who game regularly, as compared to those who do not, are more likely to experience tinnitus, measured high-frequency hearing loss, and self-perceived difficulties hearing.” 

How Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Occurs 

Exposure to loud sounds can damage the hair cells in your ear that help you hear. If too many of the hair cells become damaged over time due to prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as a video game at high volume, some will die, leading to permanent hearing loss. 

Adopt Safe Playing/Listening Habits 

Fortunately, preventing noise-induced hearing loss doesn’t mean you have to stop playing “Baldur’s Gate” entirely (we see you, Dungeons & Dragons fans). But you do have to be smart about how you game.  

Following these ear-friendly tips:  

1. Keep the volume at a safe listening level—it should be no higher than 60% of the maximum. 
2. Use well-fitting headphones with noise cancellation—that way, you won’t hear background noise that could cause you to turn up the volume too loud. 
3. Monitor sound levels—your smartphone may have features that display the number of decibels coming through its speakers or your earphones, and you can also use apps to measure sound intensity in your environment.  
4. Take listening breaks—your ears deserve it!  

Think you may have hearing damage from gaming or other life experiences? Request an appointment today.