Each and every day, technological advancements are growing by leaps and bounds. Wireless technology has become part and parcel of our daily lives, with scores of new devices entering the market every other week.
Some of the best-selling tech gadgets currently are wireless devices – such as Bluetooth headphones. Bluetooth headphones are certainly a trendy gadget offering convenience and a hands-free, wireless listening experience – but what are the ways in which it can impact your health?
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Bluetooth Headphones And Radiation
There are two types of electromagnetic radiation (EMR): ionising EMR and non-ionising EMR. Bluetooth headphones are in the category of non-ionising EMR. Non-ionising EMR is a low-level radiofrequency radiation. This means that its effect on humans is not severe in the short-term, but it may cause health problems in the long-run. Scientific studies from sources such as the CDC have shown that this radiation is harmful when in direct contact with the human body.
Both electromagnetic fields (EMF) and EMR have the potential to pose a significant health risk associated with wireless Bluetooth headphones. Scientists worldwide have conducted studies on the potential health risks posed by chronic EMF exposure to humans. Some of the common health risks noted are cancer, neurological damage, and issues with fertility. Others include increased free radical production, increased stress to body cells, migraines, restless sleep, tinnitus, and skin rash.
Researchers have led a call on the World Health Organisation to formulate strict regulations on electromagnetic radiation exposure from wireless devices. The rules would help in compelling tech manufacturers to take precautions by developing wireless devices that protect their consumers against radiation.
Further Health Concerns Regarding Pregnant Women
The negative effects of EMF and EMR are more concerning especially when it comes to pregnant women. It has been discovered that pregnant women who use Bluetooth headphones and other wireless devices are three times more likely to undergo a miscarriage. It also found that such women may deliver children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. A developing embryo exhibits high sensitivity to ionising radiation, with the main effects on the embryo being:
- Slowed growth
- Prenatal death
- Mental development issues
Pregnant women should exercise utmost caution regarding EMF exposure. If possible, avoid use of Bluetooth headphones and wireless devices at least until the embryo is mature.
Precautions That You Can Take
As with all things, prevention is better than cure. It is better to be cautious in using Bluetooth headphones to avoid potential health risks in the long term. Below are some simple guidelines that you can follow to help reduce levels of EMR exposure and negative side effects.
- When you are on the phone for a long time, opt for the speaker feature on your phone instead of Bluetooth headphones. This will reduce the duration of contact that Bluetooth headphones have with your head.
- For music lovers, use speakers that don’t require you to attach a headset to your head.
- Children are more sensitive to radiation because their skulls are not fully developed. Limit their exposure to Bluetooth headphones.
- When making a Bluetooth headphones purchase, buy a renowned brand that has been in the market for a long time and complies with official SAR limits.
- Switch off your Bluetooth headphones and all other wireless devices that emit Wi-Fi signals when not in use.
- Safeguard your sleeping area by removing all wireless devices from the vicinity of your bedroom. These include Wi-Fi routers, computers, laptops, mobile phones, and Bluetooth headsets. If you must have your phone in the room, put it on flight mode. Avoid dangerous habits such as sleeping with your Bluetooth headphones on, like while listening to music for example.
Consider The Use Of Shielding Apparel
Try as hard as we may, it is impossible to completely avoid exposure to EMF and EMR emissions. Whether it is for work, school, or other obligations, we have to step out and also make use of the daily technological devices that are a norm in our society.
To overcome this, you can consider making use of shielding apparel – clothing made of EMF and 5G blocking fabric that can protect us from electromagnetic exposure. Whether it’s in the form of an EMF protection hat or blanket, it is a good method of protection whether you are at home or on the go!