Zoom ear, also known as Zoom fatigue, is a condition that affects people who spend long periods of time on video calls. It's characterized by a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears. This can be caused by several factors, including:
- Prolonged listening: Constantly listening to voices through speakers or headphones can strain your ears.
- Lack of natural breaks: Video calls often lack the natural pauses and breaks that occur in face-to-face conversations, leading to a constant flow of auditory input.
- Cognitive load: Focusing on the visual and auditory aspects of video calls can mentally exhaust you, contributing to the feeling of ear pressure.
Symptoms of Zoom Ear:
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears
- Muffled hearing
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Ear pain
- Headache
How to Prevent Zoom Ear:
- Take breaks: Step away from the screen and give your ears a rest.
- Use headphones with noise cancellation: This can help to reduce background noise and strain on your ears.
- Adjust your audio settings: Ensure the volume is at a comfortable level.
- Limit your screen time: Try to reduce the amount of time you spend on video calls.
- Practice mindfulness: Focus on your breathing and relax your muscles to reduce stress.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent Zoom ear and maintain your hearing health.
