Headphones are no longer an occasional accessory—they’re part of daily life. From early-morning podcasts to late-night playlists, our ears are spending more time under acoustic load than ever before. But a question keeps coming up in clinics, classrooms, and conversations around ear health: Are earbuds worse for your hearing than over-ear headphones? Let’s move beyond opinion and aesthetics. By looking at sound pressure levels , hygiene , and long-term listening behaviour , we can reach a clear, evidence-informed conclusion. 1. Sound Pressure Levels: Distance Matters More Than You Think The single most important factor in headphone-related hearing risk is the amount of sound energy that reaches the inner ear . Earbuds (In-Ear Headphones) Sit millimetres from the eardrum Deliver sound directly into the ear canal Require lower absolute power , but often result in higher sound pressure at the cochlea Users tend to increase volume in noisy environments (commuting, g...
Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a common condition that affects many people, including school-aged children and young athletes. The condition is caused by an allergic reaction to certain substances, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, which can trigger inflammation in the nasal passages and other parts of the body. For children and young athletes, allergic rhinitis can have a significant impact on their academic and athletic performance, as well as their overall quality of life. Here are some ways in which allergic rhinitis can affect school and athletics performance: Difficulty concentrating: Allergic rhinitis can cause symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes, which can make it difficult for children to concentrate in school. This can lead to poor academic performance, lower grades, and decreased motivation to learn. Fatigue and sleep disturbances: Allergic rhinitis can also cause fatigue and sleep disturbances,...