No experience can match the energy and artistry of live music. Performances are often broadcast over massive speaker systems that can do extensive and lasting damage to your hearing. Read this helpful guide to protect yourself from hearing loss.

Do:

Take breaks.

Constant exposure is only going to worsen the damage you’re doing to your ears, so take breaks. Step out onto a patio for between sets so your ears can recover, or move toward the back of the room. These little breaks can go a long way toward preventing hearing loss.

Wear protection.

The most important rule is that you wear protection. A rock concert is usually around 120 dB (decibels) loud. Hearing damage can begin as low as 85 dB, so don’t hesitate to wear protection, earplugs, or over-the-ear noise-canceling headphones. These will muffle the sound so that you can hear clearly without causing serious damage. Ask your audiologist about preferred products.

You can never be completely certain that you aren’t being exposed to high decibels, so also download a decibel-measuring app on your smartphone. These are pre-calibrated and will quickly measure the decibels where you’re standing. If they’re above 85 dB, move to a quieter location.

Don’t:

Sit or stand near the speakers.

Standing near the speakers is going to give you the greatest exposure to damaging sounds, which is why the front row is often the worst place to be at a concert. When you arrive, pay attention to where speakers are positioned, including those below, on, adjacent to, and above the stage. There may also be speakers hanging behind you. It’s safest to stand toward the back and to the side of the speakers’ projected ranges.

Drink too much alcohol.

Many venues serve alcohol, but it’s important to drink in moderation at concerts. Drinking alcohol increases the blood flow to your inner ear, which worsens tinnitus—the ringing sound in your ears that you may experience at a concert. If inebriated, you’re also less likely to pay attention to protecting your ears.

If you have concerns about hearing loss, contact the team at Solbrig Hearing Center. This Kerrville, TX, practice has welcomed patients for over 15 years and offers comprehensive hearing evaluation services. They carry a number of products, including listening devices, hearing aids, and hearing aid accessories, which you can explore on their website. Call (830) 895-5900 to schedule a hearing test.