VIDEO gamers could end up deaf because they have the volume too loud and for too long, doctors warn.
And extra caution is urged for those wearing headsets or headphones.
Long droning sounds such as car engines or loud, sudden bursts like gunfire or explosions can lead to permanent hearing loss or tinnitus — phantom ringing or buzzing noises.
Dr Lauren Dillard, from the Medical University of South Carolina, US, said: “Video gaming is common worldwide and people often play at high-intensity sound levels and for several hours at a time.
"This is important because it’s possible to prevent hearing loss and tinnitus by safe listening practices.”
From tongue scraping to saying no, here are 12 health trends to try in 2023
Her review, published in journal BMJ Public Health, of 14 studies into gaming and sound levels found that people played for an average of three hours per week.
It was common for games to play at an average of 85 to 92 decibels, with bursts of up to 119 decibels.
Long exposure to sounds louder than 85db, similar to a hairdryer or lawnmower, can cause permanent hearing damage.
That limit is lower for children.
More than 70 per cent of UK 12 to 24-year-olds play every week.
Franki Oliver, from UK hearing loss charity RNID, said: “If you use gaming headsets or headphones, it’s really important not to exceed safe volume limits.
“Younger people may not realise how loud the volume is so it’s a good idea to encourage regular breaks and turn the volume down.”
