Your teen’s ears may be ringing

Edegem, Belgium – Ringing in the ears caused by loud noise exposure is prevalent among high school students, concludes a new study from Antwerp University Hospital.

A total of 3,892 high school students answered questions about their hearing and attitudes toward loud music and hearing protection. Almost 75 percent reported temporary noise-induced tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and 18.3 percent had permanent tinnitus, according to the study. The incidence of temporary tinnitus increased with age.

Researchers also found that students lacked knowledge about the dangers of loud noise exposure and most did not use hearing protection. They recommended developing campaigns to raise awareness among teens about tinnitus being a warning sign of potential hearing damage.

The study was published online July 24 in the journal PLOS ONE.