Turn it down: The dangers of loud music

One of the primary causes of hearing loss when it occurs over an extended period of time is constant exposure to loud noises.

Given that music is such an integral part of our lives, it's an ideal area to concentrate on in terms of reducing the volume and protecting your hearing.

What's more, there's no better time to start thinking about this either, with this week being Tinnitus Awareness Week and new European Union regulations coming in later this month in relation to a safe maximum default volume on personal stereos.

This is to be set at 85 decibels and is designed to ensure that people are aware of the dangers associated with loud noises.

A recent survey of young people, carried out by Action On Hearing Loss, found that 70 per cent would look to take steps to protect themselves against tinnitus, which is promising, to an extent.

However, 40 per cent said they would ignore this setting when listening to their favourite artists on their iPod, suggesting the subject is still not treated with the respect it warrants.

Action on Hearing Loss has been involved in a number of projects around the country, showcasing the importance of turning the volume down.

Campaigner, Johanna Taylor said there was no lack of desire to get 'in the know' when it comes to the dangers of loud music.

"None of the music lovers we spoke to in Birmingham had heard of the new EU standards but they were keen to find out how over-exposure to loud music could cause tinnitus or damage their hearing," she explained.

Put simply, listening to loud music over a long period of time can cause a good deal of damage to your ears and, what makes it all a bit silly is that you don't have to have your music at this volume.

Many will say music sounds better when 'turned up to eleven' but quality headphones will reduce the amount of exterior noise and allow you to hear what's important - the music.