Oct 4, 2007 12:23 am US/Eastern
Hearing Loss And Mobile Technology
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MIAMI-DADE (CBS4) ―
Researchers have studied that long-time mobile phone users may be more likely to have high-frequency hearing loss.
In Miami, Dr Ramsey Saffouri is always on the run being assisted in his hectic shedule, "I literally have a Blue-Tooth on all the time in my right ear."
Some experts, like Miami audiologist, Brian Figlor believe the problem with such equipment is in the design, which pipes sound directly into the ear canal that could lead to the most damage to hearing.
Figlor said, "For some types of inner ear phones, most certainly there is a greater risk for danger." He recommends spending no more than an hour a day with headsets outside the ear, and for phones and music players that go inside ear, no more than 15 minutes.
Dr. Saffouri no longer uses his Blue-Tooth saying, "I do think a hearing test should probably be performed on a yearly basis." He added, "I think if people were doing the hearing test every year, they would be surprised. I was surprised."
That's because some studies suggest long-term mobile technology use may result in inner ear damage.
"Doctors or other health specialists need to take the time to educate themselves, educate their families, educate their patients. That you can lose hearing," said Dr. Saffouri
As people get older, there will be a natural and gradual loss of hearing, which is why one should make sure that what one plays with today, doesn't make you pay later.
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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