Palm Pre Series - Hearing Loss Prevention; Caution: Avoid Potential Hearing Loss

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Caution: avoid potential hearing loss
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds (including music)
is the most common cause of preventable hearing loss.
Some scientific research suggests that using portable
audio devices, such as portable music players and cellular
telephones, at high volume settings for long durations may
lead to permanent noise-induced hearing loss. This includes
the use of headphones (including headsets, ear buds and
Bluetooth
®
or other wireless devices). Exposure to very
loud sound has also been associated in some studies with
tinnitus (a ringing in the ear), hypersensitivity to sound and
distorted hearing. Individual susceptibility to noise-induced
hearing loss and other potential hearing problems varies.
The amount of sound produced by a portable audio device
varies depending on the nature of the sound, the device,
the device settings and the headphones. You should follow
some common sense recommendations when using any
portable audio device:
Set the volume in a quiet environment and select the •
lowest volume at which you can hear adequately.
When using headphones, turn the volume down if you •
cannot hear the people speaking near you or if the person
sitting next to you can hear what you are listening to.
Do not turn the volume up to block out noisy surroundings. •
If you choose to listen to your portable device in a noisy
environment, use noise-cancelling headphones to block
out background environmental noise.
Limit the amount of time you listen. As the volume •
increases, less time is required before your hearing could
be affected.
Avoid using headphones after exposure to extremely loud •
noises, such as rock concerts, that might cause temporary
hearing loss. Temporary hearing loss might cause unsafe
volumes to sound normal.
Do not listen at any volume that causes you discomfort. If •
you experience ringing in your ears, hear muffled speech
or experience any temporary hearing difficulty after
listening to your portable audio device, discontinue use
and consult your doctor.
You can obtain additional information on this subject from •
the following sources: