Hearing Protection Devices

Noise is everywhere.  Some of our daily activities, occupations and recreational hobbies cause us to be exposed to annoying and/or damaging levels of noise.  Some noise sources are obvious (heavy equipment, shooting a firearm, loud music) but others are not so obvious (riding a motorcycle, mowing the lawn, using power tools, attending concerts). 
This exposure can lead to permanent hearing loss and also tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in your ears).  The only way to avoid a noise induced hearing loss is to either avoid those situations or to wear ear protection. 

Ear protection can also be used for comfort in annoying situations such as when traveling or attending sporting events or to even get a good nights sleep! There are many options for ear protection available ranging from single use disposable earplugs to custom made earpieces or earmuff style headsets.  Cotton is NOT a form of ear protection.
 

Products Available In A Variety Of Styles And Prices:

• Custom Fit Earplugs-  
  • These earplugs are molded from an impression of your ear.  Because our ears are unique, custom made hearing protection provides the ultimate in fit, comfort and performance.  They are available in a variety of materials, sizes and colors.  They can easily be cleaned.
• Musician’s Earplugs-
  • These custom earpieces are specially designed for protecting the musician’s hearing while still allowing them to hear the music around them.  
• Disposable Foam Earplugs-   
  • These earplugs are designed for single use as they cannot be cleaned.  They are generic in size and may have limited benefit depending on your ability to insert/use them correctly.  
• “Over The Counter” Ear Protection-
  • These devices are not custom made and are available at retail suppliers and pharmacies.  They are more generic in size and have limited benefit depending on your ability to insert/use them correctly.  Some can be cleaned and reused; others are for single use only.
• Muff Style Headsets-   
  • Often used in industry and construction settings.  Does not require impressions or special fitting.  Larger and easier to put on if you have dexterity issues.  Can be bulky and more difficult to carry around with you.  Less practical for the casual user.
• Hunter’s Ear Protection-   
  • Designed for hunting, this earpiece features a valve that closes in presence of impact noise.  This allows the hunter to hear until the weapon is fired yet still have some hearing protection from the gunfire. **Not recommended for patient’s undergoing treatment with ototoxic medications.