Tech experts issue warning for overlooked headphone health hazard

Issues with headphones and earphones tend to be overlooked since they're so ingrained in our everyday lives.

Most people walking around the street, gym or at work will have the in-ear or over-ear tech devices on.

They're so convenient in that we can listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks and YouTube videos all on the go - not to mention it writes off the need to hold your smartphone up to your ear when you're having a phone call.

Reportedly, Apple sold 110 million AirPods worldwide in 2020, a product that holds 25-30% market share in the wireless headphones industry.

However, tech experts fear that overuse of them could be causing an unseen build-up of earwax, which could lead to further issues.

Tech experts are warning of overlooked health risks associated with earphones / AsiaVision Getty Images

Christian Moro, a researcher at Bond University, said: 'It impacts the earwax system. If we put an earbud in, like we see in the in-ear earphones, they end up compressing that area.

'They end up blocking natural escape routes, compress it and maintain a warm environment which inhibits the wax from drying out and cause all kinds of issues.'

A build-up of earwax can cause anything from hearing problems to other symptoms such as pain, dizziness and vertigo.

Obviously, with tech being so integrated into our society, we don't realise the issue at hand.

But of course, something placed in your ear hole all day can't be good for you.

Tech expert Steve Sammartino comments on how overlooked the issues are: 'Technology has become an addendum to our bodies, so we don’t even realise.'

Prolonged use of earphones can cause a build-up of earwax /ATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images

Technology companies like Apple focus on comfort and user experience.

'They design products that we get addicted to on purpose so that they can maximise their profits,' Sammartino continued.

Moro concluded that the best way forward for your health is to change to over-ear earphones or to limit your earphone usage.

'It’s one of those things to be aware of, that maybe it’s time to take a break with the earphones.'

Other tech experts have also warned about the radiation risk associated with wearing wireless earphones.

Dr. Moskowitz, a Berkeley community health professor at the University of California, focuses on mobile phone exposure and claims there isn't enough research on what impact this could have on the brain.

'I couldn't imagine it's all that great for you,' he stated.