High-quality earplugs or earmuffs can make the loud stuff you want to hear sound better, and protect our ears when you can't escape the sounds that climb high on the decibel charts. Look for protection that has a noise-reduction rating (NPR of at least 9 dB. The louder the sounds, the greater the NPR numbers should be for adequate noise protection. Carry a clean pair with you so you'll have them handy when you need 'em. Your ears will love you for it.
Dude, are you losing it?
About 30% of all hearing loss is due to overdosing on noise. If you notice one or more of these warning signs, your ears may have just heard way too much, and may be injured:
After being in a loud place,
– Voices sound muffled or are hard to understand
– You notice a ringing or buzzing sound in your ears
– Your ears hurt
– Your ears are suddenly super-sensitive or irritated by sound. See a doctor if symptoms persist for more than one day.
Keep your ears happy … clean ‘em with care.
Gently wash away dirt and excess wax with a washcloth and warm water. Never scrub them or insert objects, including cotton swabs, into your ear canal, which can damage the delicate tissue of your external canal and even your eardrum.
Copyright 2010 © House Ear Institute.