The digital devices are extremely popular. Erin Gilmore is a St. Louis University student. She is among hundreds of thousands of young people who may be in danger, according to doctors.

"Usually when I run on the treadmill, the noise in the gym and my running and breathing, I have to turn it up so I can hear it and I don't get bored before the end of my workout session," Gilmore said. "I have to have quiet time because of a ringing in my ears."

Not only does Gilmore have the volume turned up, she listens to her iPod about five hours a day, which experts say is very typical.

Dr. James Forsen is an otolaryngologist at St. Louis Children's Hospital. He said that is clearly too long, depending on the volume. The potential for hearing loss depends on how long you listen.

Many experts recommend the 60/60 rule 60 per cent volume for no longer than 60 minutes. But doctors believe it might not be easy to detect the damage because it accumulates over time.

Doctors also say that what compounds the problem is that the little earbuds fit directly into the ear. Signs to look for include increased ringing in the ears and difficulty listening to conversations in a quiet environment.

Gilmore said she is worried. "Is it worth it in the long run? It's definitely at the back of my mind," she said.

Deanne Lane contacted Apple and the makers of other digital music players several times to get reaction, and to hear what they are doing about the problem. Weeks later, she still hasn't heard from them.

At least one consumer has taken the issue to court. You can read about it on this link.

http://www.cnn.com/2006/LAW/02/01/ipod.suit.ap/

Here is more information on the problem
http://online.wsj.com/public/article/SB113685799723842312-dZrxb_eZm44vfy74topaLm4evP8_20070110.html?mod=tff_main_tff_top

http://www.macnewsworld.com/story/48771.html

By KSDK 5
http://www.ksdk.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=92366