Effects of Bluetooth device electromagnetic field on hearing: pilot study.

BACKGROUND The Bluetooth wireless headset has been promoted as a 'hands-free' device with a low emission of electromagnetic radiation. OBJECTIVE To evaluate potential changes in hearing function as a consequence of using Bluetooth devices, by assessing changes in pure tone audiography and distortion production otoacoustic emissions. DESIGN Prospective study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty adult volunteers were exposed to a Bluetooth headset device (1) on 'standby' setting for 6 hours and (2) at full power for 10 minutes. Post-exposure hearing was evaluated using pure tone audiography and distortion production otoacoustic emission testing. RESULTS There were no statistically significant changes in hearing, as measured above, following either exposure type. CONCLUSION Exposure to the electromagnetic field emitted by a Bluetooth headset, as described above, did not decrease hearing thresholds or alter distortion product otoacoustic emissions.