EAR PROTECTION ·MADE FOR YOUR EARS
Leeds Custom Ear Plugs
Off-the-shelf plugs seal badly or block everything. A custom pair is made from impressions of the unique shape of your ears, with the attenuation chosen for what you actually need to hear.
Why do we need hearing protection?
How we hear
Hearing protection and why we might need it relate to how we hear. Our hearing mechanism can detect the faintest whisper right up to the roar of a jet engine.
The fine, delicate, hair-like structures of the inner ear are a little like underwater grasses, constantly moving with the waves. The bigger the sound (the bigger the movement of the water), the more the tiny structures (like the grasses) move.
Now imagine a huge underwater current violently shaking the underwater grasses. This is similar to what happens when we hear very loud sounds.
The risk of excessive sound
The fluid in our inner ears moves with enormous force, damaging the delicate, fine structures within our ears.
If this happens repeatedly over time, or if the sound is extremely loud, it can cause permanent hearing damage, often with tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Damage to the delicate, hair-like structures often occurs before you notice any hearing loss. This is why hearing protection is essential if you are at risk of noise damage. Read more in our blog How we hear
Who is at risk for noise-induced hearing loss?
Musicians are at high risk of noise-induced hearing loss, partly because of the sound levels they experience and partly because of repeated exposure through their art form. Read more in our blog: How loud is too loud?
Several high-profile musicians and DJs have spoken openly about hearing loss and tinnitus from their careers and recommend some form of hearing protection when working.
Firearms, whether for leisure or while serving in the armed forces, are another risk for noise-induced hearing loss.
Working with heavy machinery and equipment, for example, power tools, has also been linked to hearing loss.
Types of hearing protection
Noise-attenuating earplugs come in a variety of styles. The most basic reduce sound by blocking the ear.
The most advanced are custom, bespoke earplugs, which can be made with a specific level of attenuation (noise-reducing properties).
These are designed to reduce all frequencies of sound by the same amount, thus allowing for a natural sound, albeit at a quieter level. Perfect for listening to music, for example.
Here in Leeds, our audiologist can discuss your requirements and can offer custom, bespoke hearing protection. These require the unique shape of your ear to be taken, which allows for a custom fit.
Swim moulds
A condition called ‘swimmers’ or surfers’ ear occurs due to repeated exposure to cold water. Essentially, small bony growths occur in the external ear canal. These can become problematic. Custom swim moulds can help minimise this risk.
Sometimes children, or adults with ear perforations (holes in the eardrum) can benefit from custom swim moulds. These often allow individuals to keep swimming while reducing the risk of ear infections.
Sleep earplugs
We all know how important sleep is to our general health and well-being. Whether you have noisy neighbours or work shifts, sleep earplugs may help you sleep. Our audiology clinic in Leeds can provide the best advice for your needs.
Contact us today for an initial discussion.
Protect Your Ears
Custom fitting earplugs and hearing protection