Watching your Ear: How to keep it Healthy

We maximize our senses daily—sound, taste, sight, smell, and touch. But sometimes, when we are so used to the world around us, we forget that these senses can be abused, especially in gaming. 

For gamers, sound isn’t just an element; it is a lifeline—an APEX reference—and the gate that keeps our performance at its best. We may lose the game when we fail to hear footsteps, vital ultimates being activated, or any other necessary sound cue. But! All those hours wearing headphones to high levels will take a toll on your ears, so we will discuss ear health. 

VOLUME! 

From Pudgy Penguins Official GIPHY

If the voice in your head reads that loudly, then mission accomplished. The first tip is to set the volume to reasonable levels. Maximizing the volume for that “immersive” experience is tempting, but prolonged exposure can lead to hearing loss. The sweet spot for safe listening is around 60% of the max volume. For PC players, setting the volume in your window’s sound manager is best because, for some odd reason, it is constantly blasting at 100%. 

Quality headphone investment 

Courtesy Next Upgrade Shop

Not all headphones are created equal; cheap ones can damage your ears. Opt for a good-quality pair that offers noise cancellation. Noise-canceling headphones reduce the need to crank up the volume by blocking out ambient sounds. Additionally, over-ear models are particularly great for comfort during long gaming sessions. They distribute sound more evenly, reducing strain in the long run. If you are considering getting one, the Fifine Ampligame H9 is an excellent choice for quality and budget! 

Keep up the cleanliness! 

From Cameo Official GIPHY

While it might seem unrelated to gaming, ear hygiene plays a big role in sound clarity. Built-up wax can muffle audio cues, making it harder to catch subtle in-game sounds. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can push wax further in. Instead, gently use ear drops or a warm, damp cloth to clean your outer ear.

If you are still experiencing issues, consult a professional and book a proper check-up, fam. Immersion is always a plus in gaming; however, always keep your health in mind before locking in a four-hour session. Protect your ears—they’re your ultimate gaming ally.