To protect your hearing, begin with the fundamentals – earplugs. These small devices are inserted into the ear to block out disruptive or damaging sounds. There are many types of ear plugs on the market, making shopping confusing for some people, but with a little knowledge you can find the right pair for your situation.
The first thing to think about when shopping for ear plugs is the amount of noise reduction you need. Every plug has a noise reduction rating (NRR) that signifies the amount of noise it cancels out, with the best quality ear plugs ranging from 21 to 33 decibels. Think about where you plan to use your ear plugs. Ear plugs with a lower NRR are sufficient for blocking out traffic noise or your roommate’s TV while studying. However if you spend a lot of time around fairly loud noises you’ll need a higher NRR as would be the case for heavy equipment operators or musicians.
The composition of your ear plugs is another important factor to consider. Foam is one of the most basic materials used in ear plugs. Foam ear plugs compress as they are pressed into the ear and expand slightly when released to plug the ear canal. Alternatively, silicone plugs are molded over the outside of the ear canal, allowing you to create a plug that fits your ear perfectly. Both foam and silicone ear plugs need to be replaced periodically.
Lastly, evaluate whether you’d be better served with non-disposable, custom ear plugs. You can get away with using a simple silicone or foam plug in many situations, but there are specific plugs made for certain environments. For example, musicians often have custom ear plugs molded for them because they spend so much time around loud music both practicing and performing. These plugs are carefully crafted to fit your ear, allowing you to hear what you are playing while blocking out harmful sounds.
If you have a partner who snores, you may be shopping for earplugs to wear while you are sleeping. Ear plugs for sleeping are fairly advanced. They are able to block out the sounds of snoring while permitting you to hear your alarm clock or fire alarm. Try out these plugs with your head tilted to the side. This simulates the changes that take place in your ear canal while lying down, helping you determine whether the plugs will be comfortable while you are sleeping.
With a little time and consideration you should not have any difficulties finding the earplugs that are right for you.
The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.