Tips for Choosing Hearing Protection

The right hearing protection makes all the difference!

Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most prevalent disabilities among the young and old across the world, and it is entirely preventable. Wearing hearing protection can save you from permanent hearing loss that only gets worse with time and further loud noise exposure. Of course, choosing the right kind matters. Here are several tips for choosing hearing protection.

Understand the dBA of Your Noise Exposure

According to OSHA, it is best to avoid being around consistent 85 decibels of noise for over eight hours straight. Prolonged exposure to loud noise or instantaneous exposure to extremely loud sounds can cause hearing loss. Understand the decibel level you are dealing with in your specific environment to determine what level of noise reduction you need to get below an 85 decibel exposure.

Choose Hearing Protection with the Right dBA Reduction

Different hearing protection devices have different noise reduction ratings. It can be safer to choose a hearing protection product that reduces the decibel level to at least several decibels lower than what you need for the ultimate hearing protection.

Choose the Right Type of Hearing Protection

Choose hearing protection that you feel most comfortable with and is most standard for your circumstance. For example, shooting ranges often require electronic earmuff-style devices to protect against extremely loud sounds, and social clubs often call for discreet earplugs made of foam, silicone, plastic, or wax. Custom earplugs can suit various professions, including dentistry and music performance.

Use Dual Hearing Protection If Necessary

In the event of very loud and continuous noise exposure, dual hearing protection, using earmuffs and earplugs, can be best. If you are exposed to anything like jet engines and other such machinery, dual hearing protection is the wisest way to preserve your ears.

Make Adjustments as Needed

If you ever notice that your current hearing protection devices just aren’t cutting it, then it is best to be diligent in making appropriate changes. For example, if your foam earplugs are chafing against your ear canals, switch to silicone, wax, or other material. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, it’s best to adjust it to prevent any other health problems.

Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions

Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, and Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.

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