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SAC Health Minute: "Let's Talk About Protecting Your Ears at Live Shows"

  • Aug 12
  • 2 min read

Updated: Aug 12


Can Live Shows or Concerts Cause Damage To Your Hearing?


There’s nothing quite like the excitement and energy of a live concert or performance. The crowd, the lights, and the sound of the music and that bass that you can feel right in your chest can make for an unforgettable experience. But, after the event, that ringing in your ears when you wake up the next morning? Is it just a harmless post-concert hangover, or is it a sign of something worse?


In this quick episode of SAC Health Minute, Dr. Jason Lohr, CEO of SAC Health and a local family physician, breaks down a question we hear from music lovers all the time: Can frequent concerts affect your hearing long-term?

The short answer? Yes, absolutely.

Here is what you need to know about protecting your ears while still enjoying your favorite artists.


The 15-Minute Danger Zone

Noise-induced hearing loss is very real, and the damage is cumulative—meaning it adds up over time. Most live concerts blast music at over 100 decibels. At that volume, permanent damage to your ears can happen in just 15 minutes.


What Actually Happens in Your Ear?

Inside your inner ear are tiny, delicate hair cells responsible for processing sound. When you are exposed to extremely loud noises for longer periods, these cells are damaged or destroyed. The biggest problem? They do not grow back.


Over time, this repeated exposure leads to two major issues:

  • Permanent hearing loss: A gradual decrease in your ability to hear everyday sounds and conversations.

  • Tinnitus: A constant, incurable ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears.


The Easy Fix: High-Fidelity Earplugs

You don't have to give up live music to protect your long-term health. Instead, invest in a pair of high-fidelity earplugs. Unlike the cheap foam earplugs that muffle everything and ruin the experience, high-fidelity earplugs are specifically designed for musicians and concertgoers. They safely reduce the ambient noise level without sacrificing the clarity or quality of the music.


Your hearing is something that you'll rely on and need throughout your life! And taking a few seconds to pop in a pair of earplugs can save you from a lifetime of tinnitus or hearing loss.


Your primary care provider is your partner in your health and well-being. Visit sachealth.org to find out about services and how you can choose SAC Health to be part of your care team.


Disclaimer: SAC Health Answers is meant to provide health education and information, and is not a replacement for regular one-on-one check-ups or appointments with your health care provider.


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SAC Health Answers is meant to provide health education and information, and not a replacement for regular one-on-one check ups or appointments with your health care provider, nor does it establish a doctor-patient relationship.

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