Complaints and hearing habits of portable stereo set users

Abstract

Exposure to noise in leisure activities, especially with the use of headphones, can affect the health, labor and social relations of users of these devices, especially with regard to the intensity and the sound exposure time. Objective: To characterize the complaints and hearing habits of a group of adults in their use of portable stereo set. Methods: A semi-structured questionnaire about hearing habits was applied to a group of students during a social event at the University. Eighty subjects answered questions about habits and hearing complaints and had the sound pressure level of sound equipment (MP3, mobile phone, iPod) estimated by means of a sound pressure level meter. Results: The main complaints reported after the use of the equipment were buzzing, trouble understanding and need to increase the volume of television or radio after listening to music. Hearing problems were more frequent among those users who listened to music at a higher intensity. Conclusion: The majority of respondents reported hearing problems after portable stereo set use, which were more frequent among those who listened to music at a higher intensity.