We all experience some level of noise during the day. It can occur at home, at work, or during hobbies. Because of the high levels of noise we encounter daily, hearing loss is a common problem, but it can be prevented. If you are immersed in prolonged periods of loud noise, you should be using hearing protection. Here are some common questions asked about hearing protection to help you find what will work best for you.
Why do I need hearing protection?
The inner ear is composed of a series of delicate components that can easily be damaged. The eardrum will not heal itself, and in a lot of instances, it cannot be medically treated. You may be exposed to more damaging sounds that you think like power tools, lawnmowers, motorcycles, speedboats, hunting, or concerts. Investing in hearing protection will allow you to continue to enjoy all these activities without putting your hearing at risk.
What are the types of hearing protection available?
There are many different forms of hearing protection, and they are all best suited for different situations. The main kinds of hearing protection include foam earplugs, custom earplugs and earmuffs.
Disposable foam earplugs are great for light sleepers who want to reduce noise at night to sleep better. They are also great for concerts and working in a slightly noisy environment. While they will reduce the noise, they will also still allow you to hear a conversation and are not going to be as noticeable as other forms of hearing protection. These earplugs expand once inserted to contour to fit your ear to more effectively block the sound.
Custom earplugs are designed to specifically fit your ears. They are popular among factory workers, musicians, or other people who need hearing protection every day. A hearing health professional will be able to help you get fitted for them after making an impression of your ear and discussing your daily needs.
Earmuffs are different from the other two forms of hearing protection because they cover the entire outer ear instead of being inserted into the ear canal. They help decrease noise and are commonly used to decrease noise associated with power tools, lawnmowers, snowblowers, or other forms of machinery. They are comfortable for shorter periods of time and have a high level of noise reduction.
How long do those products last?
Foam earplugs are disposable and are supposed to be replaced every day or every other day. They shouldn’t be used for longer periods because they cannot be effectively cleaned and accumulate dirt and bacteria over time. If you use plastic earplugs, they will last longer but should be cleaned after each use.
Custom earplugs can last for several years if they are properly cared for. Sometimes the shape of your ear can change, which will require the need for new earplugs. They can be easily cleaned for repeated use.
Earmuffs can also last for years. The exact lifespan depends on how often you use them and how well you clean them. Parts of them can also be replaced if they wear out without replacing the entire item.
When should I see a hearing health professional?
You should talk to your hearing health professional if you have concerns about your hearing or if your hearing protection needs are changing. They can offer invaluable advice about how to best protect your hearing based on individual needs and lifestyles.
