Are wireless headphones harmful?

Recently, companies producing various gadgets have begun to move away from wired headsets. Of course, from a convenience point of view this is quite reasonable: there is no need to constantly untangle the wires, and wired headphones tend to break (when the contact comes off). But how safe are they for health?

What are wireless headphones

We learned to transmit sound without wires a long time ago. There are more and more Bluetooth lovers, and sometimes this is the only way to listen to music on the device. For example, the latest Apple models do not have a headphone jack. The developers believe that the connector space can be used more efficiently.

Kinds:

It should be mentioned that wireless headphones are not only the famous AirPods. They are:

• Infrared. They are more suitable for television viewing. The thing is that the infrared transmitter is similar to the control panel. In order for the sound to be transmitted to the headphones, you cannot move your head or move far away. But the undoubted advantage is that you can connect several devices at once.
• Headphones. This type is not suitable for music, but is quite suitable for watching TV or listening to audiobooks.
•  Bluetooth headphones. A universal option, suitable for any device that supports Bluetooth technology. I must say that the sound quality in such headphones will be much higher than in the previous two. However, for a good headset you will have to pay a couple of tens of thousands. Yes, of course, there are cheaper models, but in terms of sound quality they will be significantly inferior to their expensive “brothers”. For comparison, wired headphones with similar sound are several times cheaper.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wireless Technology

Among the variety of models, it is sometimes difficult to choose the one whose functional features will completely satisfy you. If health risks aren't a big concern to you when choosing a headset, check out the key features.
Pros:

• No inconvenience with wires.
• Convenience. You no longer need to think about touching the wire, thereby interrupting your conversation or listening to music.
• This is a stylish accessory.
• There is no need to carry your mobile phone with you all the time: while listening, it can be charging in the next room.
• Some models have their own battery, which will save your phone's battery power.
• The functionality of some expensive models includes voice control, a pedometer and heart rate measurement.

Minuses:

• The quality of wireless ones is still inferior to regular ones. Connoisseurs of high-quality sound will always prefer the second option.
• If they have a battery, their weight increases.
• Not suitable for devices without Bluetooth.
• They can discharge at the most inopportune moment.
• If they are separated, they are easy to lose; Since this is a one-piece device, it takes up a lot of space (you can’t easily put it in your pocket anymore).
• Price. You will have to pay a decent amount for the sound quality and various bells and whistles.

Possible consequences of bluetooth headphones

Manufacturers claim that such headphones are absolutely safe for the human body. And all radiation is within the permissible norm.

But numerous studies show that low-intensity microwave radiation has a negative effect on the body. What does this mean? Of course, the negative consequences will not appear immediately.

• At first, you may experience increased irritability and trouble sleeping.
• Then the condition of the skin, nails and hair will worsen.
• I often have headaches and migraines.
• It becomes harder to remember something or concentrate on something.
• The person becomes nervous and depressed.
• There may be a decrease or complete lack of appetite, problems with the gastrointestinal tract. And this is already a risk of ulcers or gastritis.
• Problems of the genital organs: in men it is impotence, in women it is infertility.
• If a woman uses a Bluetooth headset frequently and for a long time during pregnancy, there is a high risk of giving birth to a child with autism.

And we are not talking about any specific manufacturer here. Research is carried out on equipment that has similar radiation.

Are wireless headphones harmful to the brain: doctors' version

The main danger of wireless headphones is brain cancer.

Scientists from the United Kingdom claim that wireless headphones pose a huge danger to the brain.Due to the peculiarities of wireless technology, it turns out that low-intensity radio waves entering the ears provoke some pathologies: the protective reaction of the brain to chemical and biological influences is reduced, and also generally affects the immune system.

In terms of intensity, the radiation from wireless headphones can be compared to microwave radiation, only directly in our ear. But, alas, doctors cannot provide specific data on the dangers of Bluetooth, so they can only give recommendations regarding wearing such a headset.

What the developers say

All manufacturers assure their customers that their products are absolutely safe for health. They even provide links to relevant studies. But we must take into account that they, first of all, pursue the goal of making a profit.

So far there have been no precedents. At least no one died. And those who experience headaches and other ailments may not associate this with private use of wireless headphones.

Owner reviews

Judging by surveys of those who have been using a wireless headset for many years, they do not experience any discomfort. Moreover, they consider such a headset more convenient than a wired one.

Among the respondents, there were those who diagnosed themselves with headaches and general fatigue after switching to a Bluetooth headset. But it’s difficult to say that these are specifically the consequences of wearing headphones, and not the body’s reaction to other factors (illness, stress). In general, we can say that users are satisfied with the purchase.

Prevention

First, you need to know how to choose the right Bluetooth headphones.It is recommended to give preference only to trusted manufacturers who confirm the safety of their products through research.

Many people advise choosing noise-cancelling headphones - they create a barrier between the outer ear and sound. This technology helps prevent the effects of radiation on the body.

How to use the headset correctly?

By following preventive measures, you will reduce your health risks. What is it about:

• Do not wear the headset all the time; limit the time you wear it. Choose your preferred activity to wear the headset: running, training, commuting to work/school.
• Don't listen to music at maximum volume.

Conclusion

We can say that wireless headphones are undoubtedly convenient. But keep in mind: if you use them for a long time, no one can guarantee that this will not affect your health. The war between doctors and manufacturers on this basis continues to this day. In any case, if you decide to buy just such a headset, take precautions.