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tinnitus (a ringing in the ear),
hypersensitivity to sound and
distorted hearing. Individual
susceptibility to noise-induced
hearing loss and other potential
hearing problems varies.
The amount of sound produced by
a portable audio device varies
depending on the nature of the
sound, the device, the device
settings and the headphones. You
should follow some commonsense
recommendations when using any
portable audio device:
lSet the volume in a quiet
environment and select the
lowest volume at which you can
hear adequately.
lWhen using headphones, turn
the volume down if you cannot
hear the people speaking near
you or if the person sitting next
to you can hear what you are
listening to.
lDo not turn the volume up to
block out noisy surroundings. If
you choose to listen to your
portable device in a noisy
environment, use noise-
cancelling headphones to block
out background environmental
noise.
lLimit the amount of time you
listen. As the volume increases,
less time is required before your
hearing could be affected.
lAvoid using headphones after
exposure to extremely loud
noises, such as rock concerts,
that might cause temporary
hearing loss. Temporary hearing
loss might cause unsafe volumes
to sound normal.
lDo not listen at any volume that
causes you discomfort. If you
experience ringing in your ears,
hear muffled speech or
experience any temporary
hearing difficulty after listening
to your portable audio device,
discontinue use and consult your
doctor.
You can obtain additional
information on this subject from the
following sources:
American Academy of Audiology
11730 Plaza American Drive, Suite
300
Reston, VA 20190
Voice: (800) 222-2336
Email: info@audiology.org
Internet: www.audiology.org