Can I Use Headphones with Unilateral Tinnitus?

[Ivano_m]

Unfortunately, there's an ongoing debate on Tinnitus Talk about whether headphones, even at low volumes, can worsen tinnitus.

I don't want to revisit that topic, as it would likely lead to a pointless and unproductive argument between those who believe they're right and those who disagree.

I'd like to know whether I can still use headphones with unilateral tinnitus by blocking the output to the affected ear and only allowing audio through the healthy ear, keeping the volume low, of course.

 

[Michael Leigh]

I'd like to know whether I can still use headphones with unilateral tinnitus by blocking the output to the affected ear and only allowing audio through the healthy ear, keeping the volume low, of course.

Even though your tinnitus is unilateral, if it was noise-induced, I don't advise you to listen to audio through your good ear, with any headphones, even at low volume.

Some people with noise-induced tinnitus are not affected by headphone use, but many are. It is your choice.

All the best,
Michael

 

[orenge01]

Unfortunately, there's an ongoing debate on Tinnitus Talk about whether headphones, even at low volumes, can worsen tinnitus.

I don't want to revisit that topic, as it would likely lead to a pointless and unproductive argument between those who believe they're right and those who disagree.

I'd like to know whether I can still use headphones with unilateral tinnitus by blocking the output to the affected ear and only allowing audio through the healthy ear, keeping the volume low, of course.

I'd say it's safe, but make sure to take frequent breaks—a lot of breaks. And keep the volume very low. I personally use 4% volume on Windows. The longer you listen, the higher the risk, so avoid any 10+ hour binges like I, unfortunately, have done.