How Ear Protection Prevents Tinnitus

Tinnitus affects millions across the U.S., and for younger people, loud noise exposure is often the leading cause. Just one intense sound for extended period of time can pose a risk to you hearing health. Managing the risk of tinnitus can be as simple as finding the right hearing protection with the help of an audiologist. While everyone benefits from wearing ear protection, it’s especially important for those frequently in loud settings, like musicians and construction workers. If you’re unsure about the type of hearing protection that’s best for you, an audiologist can provide personalized guidance.

Hearing Protection and Tinnitus

Loud noise harms the small hairs and intricate structures within your ear. In some instances, it is temporary. If you have been to a loud concert then you may find that you experience ringing inside your ears. However, repeated exposure to high noise levels can lead to tinnitus or hearing loss, making hearing protection essential. Those who work with loud equipment, like jackhammers or chainsaws, face increased risk and should take steps to protect their hearing. If your job involves firearms or you’re near a firing range, ear protection is also crucial. Musicians, especially those connected to loud amplifiers, should use protective gear regularly to help preserve their hearing.

Within your ears, there are delicate hair cells called cochlea. These move when your ear receives sound input. It also triggers electrical signals that travel from the nerve to your ear, and finally to your brain. Your brain then interprets this signal as being sound. If the hairs in your ear are broken or bent, which happens when you are exposed to loud music or sounds. This results in tinnitus. Tinnitus can also be caused if you listen to music at a very high volume, especially for those who use earphones or earbuds.

Choosing the Right Ear Protection

To help find relief from tinnitus symptoms and prevent it from getting worse, it’s important to choose the right ear protection. If you work with loud machinery, make sure to use ear protection designed for industrial environments instead of earbuds made for travel. Some types, like over-ear headphones, provide greater sound blocking, effectively reducing exposure to harmful noise levels.

Noise-canceling headphones and earmuffs are also good options for shielding your ears from loud sounds. If you are looking for a more snug fit, custom-molded earplugs might be the best option for you, as they provide a tighter seal and are fitted to the exact shape of your ear. There are several different types of hearing protection to choose from and your audiologist can help you choose the right one for your needs.

If you believe you have tinnitus and want to take steps to protect yourself from further exposure talk with an audiologist about wearing hearing aids with a tinnitus masking feature. Your audiologist will discuss the different types of hearing protection available, and which will be right for your specific environment and needs. If you want to learn more about how ear protection can help to prevent tinnitus, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.