Sound plays a crucial role in the lives of musicians and music industry professionals. Optimal performance and well-being will be enhanced by protecting your auditory health. At the Callier Center, our certified audiologists recognize and prioritize the importance of preventing hearing injury. We offer personalized hearing protection options, baseline hearing evaluations tailored for music professionals, and regular auditory health monitoring, to help you safely produce and enjoy sound for a lifetime.
What is MIHD?
Music Induced Hearing Disorders (MIHD) refers to auditory injuries caused by sound exposure. This includes reduced hearing sensitivity, tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in your ears), hyperacusis (sensitivity to sounds), diplacusis (different perception of the same sound in each ear), and dysacusis (distortion in sound perception). Because musicians and music industry professional are surrounded by sound, it is important to recognize that the volume or decibel level, and also the length of exposure are the factors that determine if a sound level is safe or potentially dangerous. As loudness levels increase, the window of safe listening time decreases. Research has shown that musicians and music industry professionals are at higher risk of auditory disorders than the general population.
Why should I get a hearing evaluation?
A comprehensive audiological evaluation will provide us with a clear understanding of your current auditory health, a baseline from which to monitor health over time. Our musician’s hearing evaluation goes beyond standard testing. We use a variety of specialized tools to detect early signs of auditory damage. You will receive a customized hearing protection plan to prevent auditory damage and to enhance and prolong your professional performance.
How can I protect my auditory health?
When it comes to the performing arts community, prevention is better than cure. The goal of hearing protection is to reduce the level of sound that reaches your ears, thereby increasing your window of safe listening time. There are three main types of hearing protection: passive earplugs, high-fidelity musician’s earplugs, and electronic hearing protection. In-ear monitors can also be used for safe listening if professionally monitored. The best type of hearing protection is the one you will use! Our team can help you choose hearing protection that suits your individual needs. We also conduct fit testing to ensure the effectiveness of your devices.
It is never too late to take care of your ears. We provide confidential and compassionate hearing health care and expert advice on minimizing your risk of hearing injury. Our Gold Circle Certified team is here to help you safely enjoy music for life.
