Are headphones dangerous in summer? Experts warn

Listening to music, podcasts, or talking on the phone has become an inseparable part of modern life. Especially among young people, headphones have become a constant accessory. However, experts emphasize that using headphones continuously and improperly during the summer season may cause a number of health problems.

Below are specific, scientifically proven risks of using headphones in summer:

1. In summer, the air temperature is high, and the human body sweats more. When headphones are worn for a long time, airflow is restricted, and moisture accumulates inside the ear. This creates a favorable environment for bacteria and fungi to multiply.

According to an article published in The Journal of Laryngology & Otology, wearing headphones for long periods and not cleaning them increases the risk of otitis (ear inflammation) or fungal infections.

2. Headphones are often made of plastic or rubber materials. If these materials stay in contact with sweaty skin for a long time, they can cause allergic reactions, redness, itching, and even eczema. The risk doubles if headphones are shared and hygiene rules are not followed.

3. Due to increased environmental noise in summer (cars, air conditioners, construction work), many people turn up the headphone volume. This increases the risk of damaging three main ear structures — auditory cells, surface cells, and nerve fibers.

According to the World Health Organization, listening to music at more than 85 dB for over 2 hours can gradually reduce hearing ability. Such cases are more common in summer.

4. Headphones are frequently touched with hands and often not cleaned. This turns them into carriers of infection. During the summer, infectious diseases (including of the eyes and skin) spread widely, and through headphones, viruses and bacteria can easily enter the body.

5. Many people may not know that headphones don’t function well outside a certain temperature range. Electronic components can overheat in summer, which may not only damage the device but also harm the body (such as mild burns or inner ear injury).

Headphones are a necessary device in modern life, but their correct use is especially important in summer. Health is above all! Therefore, during hot periods, don’t forget to use headphones wisely, hygienically, and carefully. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!