Using noise-cancelling headphones may be harmful to the brain, experts have warned.
Audiologists from the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom have observed a link between prolonged use of modern noise-cancelling headphones and the development of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), a neurological condition.
They note that this is particularly prevalent among young people, such as Generation Z, who are heavy users of these headphones. The early onset of this brain disorder can have significant negative effects on cognitive function and overall health.
APD is a neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to interpret sounds. It impairs the brain’s capacity to process sounds or spoken words, particularly in environments with background noise.
The NHS states that APD is typically seen in individuals who have had frequent ear infections, a head injury, or complications at birth. It is also more common in neurodiverse individuals. However, APD is now becoming increasingly prevalent in people without these risk factors, leading audiologists to question whether other elements, such as noise-cancelling headphones, may be contributing.
According to the NHS, symptoms of APD may include difficulty understanding people speaking in noisy environments, fast talkers, individuals with thick accents, similar-sounding words, and/or spoken instructions.
The study observed a pattern between prolonged use of noise-cancelling headphones—which block multiple layers of sound—and a reduced ability of the brain to learn what to focus on.
According to scientists, by blocking out everyday sounds such as car horns and alarm sirens, noise-cancelling headphones may cause the brain to "forget" how to filter out background noise.
Essentially, the brain’s ability to process these universal sounds slows down, which can increase the likelihood of developing APD.
Noise-cancelling headphones use active noise control to reduce unwanted ambient sounds, allowing the user to focus on their chosen audio without increasing the volume.
Audiologists are particularly concerned because these headphones are widely used by young people, whose listening skills are still developing. The risk of APD arises from the fact that prolonged use of such headphones creates a ‘false’ listening environment, limiting exposure to a full range of sounds and potentially delaying the brain’s ability to process speech and background noise.
Notably, audiologists have observed that APD patients exhibit normal hearing when tested, but struggle with sound processing.
The observations by UK-based specialists have been corroborated by experts in Kenya.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, Dr Allan Gray Mukuzi, an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, stated that there is sufficient basis for the NHS audiologists' findings.
Reiterating these concerns, Mukuzi explained that prolonged use of noise-cancelling headphones “denies the brain the stimulation it requires” to process sounds effectively. As a result, the brain may not register sounds as it should due to limited exposure.
“The ears hear, but the brain listens. It is the brain’s job to interpret the sounds the ears detect, such as a bird chirping. Noise-cancelling headphones train the brain to focus on specific sounds, which may not be as familiar. However, the brain is adaptive and will attempt to process familiar sounds despite reduced exposure,” Mukuzi explained.
Even so, Mukuzi acknowledged that this is a “fairly new phenomenon” and that further research is needed to substantiate the findings.
Mukuzi’s statements align with those of UK-based scientists, who noted that while this remains a “relatively new” area of study, there is reasonable cause for concern among Generation Z.
To reduce the risk of developing APD, experts recommend monitoring overall sound exposure from both headphones and the external environment. Additionally, taking regular breaks from headphones can help maintain long-term sound processing abilities.
Experts also warned that noise-cancelling headphones can make users less aware of their surroundings, posing potential safety risks, including accidents. Furthermore, prolonged use at high volumes can lead to discomfort, hearing fatigue, headaches, disorientation, and dizziness.
Nevertheless, noise-cancelling headphones also have recognised benefits. They provide hearing protection by reducing the need to increase volume in noisy environments, preventing potential hearing damage. They also minimise ambient distractions, improving concentration and productivity.
By filtering out background noise, these headphones enhance audio clarity and immersion, improving the listening experience. Additionally, they contribute to stress reduction, creating a quieter environment that can promote overall well-being.
