What the Ringing Is
Tinnitus is the perception of sound with no outside source, so nobody else can hear it. The NIDCD describes the kind loud noise causes as a ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ears or head, and says many people notice it after a sporting event or concert.
The CDC lists pain or ringing in the ears, and distorted or muffled hearing, among the effects of noise-induced hearing loss. Muffled hearing on the way home is the same warning as the ringing.
How Long It Lasts
The temporary hearing loss from a loud night usually disappears 16 to 48 hours later, according to the NIDCD. Its tinnitus page says tinnitus may improve or go away over time, but in some cases it worsens, and when it lasts three months or longer it is considered chronic.
Feeling normal again does not mean nothing happened. The NIDCD notes that although the loss of hearing seems to disappear, there may be residual long-term damage. Each loud night adds to that risk.
When to See Someone
The WHO lists persistent ringing in the ears as a sign to have your hearing checked. The NIDCD says to have your hearing tested if you think you might have hearing loss.
For tinnitus, the NIDCD suggests starting with your primary care doctor, who will check for earwax or fluid from an ear infection. You may then be referred to an ear, nose, and throat doctor (an ENT) or an audiologist, who can measure your hearing.
How Loud a Concert Is
The NIDCD puts concerts, sporting events, and music through headphones at maximum volume at 94–110 dBA. Sounds at or below 70 dBA are unlikely to cause hearing loss even after long exposure, and long or repeated exposure at or above 85 dBA can.
Time matters as much as level. The WHO gives these weekly safe listening limits:
- 80 dB: 40 hours a week.
- 90 dB: 4 hours a week.
- 100 dB: 20 minutes a week.
Our concert decibel meter shows the level where you are standing and how long that level is safe. For the full picture of levels and limits, see how loud is too loud.
Protecting Your Ears Next Time
The WHO's advice for concerts and clubs:
- Stay away from loudspeakers and amplifiers.
- Wear earplugs regularly and properly.
- Rest your ears in a quiet space for 10 minutes after every hour.
The NIDCD adds that if you can't reduce the noise or protect yourself from it, you should move away from it. Musician's earplugs lower the level while keeping music clear, so you can still hear the band. Our concert earplugs guide compares reusable pairs, and what NRR means explains the numbers on the box.