You’ve heard of Blackberry thumb. Now there’s iPod ear.
 

As the use of portable MP3 players soars, concerns are emerging that the gadgets may contribute to hearing damage, or even hearing loss, if listeners keep the volume too high. KSMU’s Alvin Chen reports.

Stan Petersen is a hearing instrument specialist at the Enhanced Hearing Center in Springfield. Like other hearing experts, he’s concerned that people are experiencing hearing loss because they’re listening to music through earphones too loudly, and for too long.
 

He says although hearing loss may not be apparent for years, once the damage occurs, it’s permanent and irreversible.

 

He gives advice to music lovers who listen to iPod or MP3 players on how to prevent hearing damage as much as possible.

 

He also reminds music listeners to turn down the volume when listening to these devices.
 

For KSMU News, I’m Alvin Chen.