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Can "Dr. Beat" Cause Damage to the Ear?

CSEF · 2012 Mammalian Biology

Michelle C. Stanley · Stockdale High School, Bakersfield, Kern County

Overview

Objectives/Goals I play in the marching band where we use a Dr Beat when we rehearse our field shows. A Dr Beat is a loud speaker that is connected to a metronome. The beats from the metronome are amplified so that band members can hear the sound over the entire area of the football field. After practices, I have experienced ringing in my ears, clogged sinuses, the feeling of a swollen right eye, and finally, throbbing headaches. Based on this, I believe a Dr Beat can cause damage to the ear. Methods/Materials I set up the Dr Beat beside the football field in the same location and same manner as we do in practices. I arranged 24 orange pylon cones at different intervals on the football field to measure and record the decibel levels using a decibel meter. I tested the decibel level coming from Dr Beat at each pylon location three times. I then averaged the data and compared the results with a conversion table of intensity to decibel levels. I compared these results with materials from my research on hearing loss. I then made an appointment to have my hearing checked with an ear, nose, and throat specialist to discuss my symptoms after rehearsals. Results I found that 89 was the highest decibels produced by the Dr Beat. 42 decibels was the lowest. 60 was the average decibels produced. Dr. Rabinov (the specialist) conducted a physical examination of my ears. I also had a hearing test. The doctor determined that I experience temporary threshold shifts during practices which results in tinnitus and the symptoms I suffer. Conclusions/Discussion 60 decibels is not enough to immediately cause hearing damage. Anything over 85 can kill hair cells in the cochlea of the middle ear, and I did have a reading of 89 decibels. Dr. Rabinov advised me that repeated loud exposure will cause damage to my ears. We discussed a type of ear plug worn by many musicians. So, while Dr Beat does not cause immediate damage to the ear, long term exposure could cause damage to unprotected ears.

Summary statement

My project is about whether or not a Dr Beat can cause damage to the ear.

Help received

I received help from the music and athletic departments at my school. My dad rented the pylons.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2012 Mammalian Biology · Entry S1213

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