Noise exposure is the most common cause of hearing loss, yet only eight percent of adults wear hearing protection consistently. That’s why we believe taking care of your hearing should feel like a natural part of your day. We offer a selection of products designed to block out excessive noise while keeping you connected to your environment. Whether you are navigating noisy city streets, watching your favorite live band or enjoying your hobbies, there is a hearing product for your needs.
Who Should Consider Hearing Protection?
We live in a noisy world, which means anyone can benefit from hearing protection. Things like lawnmowers, truck engines, motorcycles, garbage trucks, chainsaws, concerts, gunshots and jet engines are examples of sounds that can become dangerous with repeat exposure.
Hearing protection is especially important for people whose hobbies or workplaces regularly expose them to high-noise environments, such as construction workers, musicians, hunters and more. According to the US Department of Labor, nearly 18 million individuals are at risk for hearing loss from damaging noise levels at their jobs. Wearing hearing protection can help reduce loud sounds by 30 decibels, and prevent additional hearing health issues like tinnitus.
Types of Hearing Protection Products
These days, hearing protection products are available in a wide variety of styles with different features and technology. Some popular styles include:
Hunting:
Hearing protection products for hunters are tailored for shooting and sudden noise. A filter closes instantaneously when damaging noise levels are detected. They allow for normal hearing levels up until the moment you shoot.
Music:
Music hearing protection allows for accurate sound at reduced levels, making it ideal for musicians, concertgoers, sports fans and anyone who regularly attends live events.
Motorsport:
Ideal for wearing under the helmet when riding, motorsport protection products feature a hollow canal to reduce wind buffeting.
Swimming or Surfing:
Water-specific hearing protection allows wearers to hear while keeping cold water and air out of the ear canal, protecting against swimmer’s ear. These devices float, ensuring they won’t get lost at sea!
Occupational:
Occupational hearing protection is utilized in high-noise workplaces like factories and construction sites. These devices are built for durability and provide dependable protection while keeping you aware of your surroundings.
Sleep:
Hearing products designed for sleep help block out unnecessary noise for uninterrupted rest. These devices are especially beneficial for those working non-traditional hours who sleep during the day.
Customized Options for Hearing Protection
While over-the-counter earplugs are options for last-minute protection, a customized solution may offer more comfort and utility depending on your needs. Custom earplugs and earmolds are molded to patients’ unique ear anatomy, ensuring a snug fit and optimal performance. They offer more security and peace of mind that your ears have the best possible protection against hearing loss.
Earplugs
Earplugs are hearing protection products designed to fit inside the ear canal. Specialized earplugs are available for musicians, hunters and construction workers who need the ability to hear their surroundings while mitigating noise damage. Specialty earplugs can be custom fit to your ear canal and are more comfortable than disposable options.
Earmolds
Earmolds are custom-made to fit the unique contour of your ear. If you cannot get a comfortable or secure fit with off-the-shelf earplugs, earmolds are an excellent option. Full-shell earmolds are generally used for high-level noise exposure, while half-shells address mid-level noise exposure. Some earmolds come with a filtered attenuator that makes communication easier while wearing the devices. This feature is popular with musicians and others who need to hear their surroundings while working in noisy environments.
If you would like to learn more about our personalized hearing protection solutions, schedule an appointment with one of our providers today.