50+ Lifestyles

Shoot! Bang! ……Ouch! My Ears are Ringing!!!

By Dr. Molly Parker
Audiologist and Owner
Parker Audiology, P.C.

Dr. Alison Soto
Audiologist
Parker Audiology, P.C.

Noise exposure is well documented to cause hearing loss. Guns, power ools, motorcycles and football crowds are uncomfortable and they often fall in the 90-140 dB range.   What is available to help you hear and yet, still protect your hearing?

There are many products to protect against noise exposure. These products can range from foam plugs, custom noise plugs, to high tech electronic custom molded devices for the serious shooter. The investment to protect hearing can range from a few dollars up to $1000 plus. While there are many products on the market, it is the professional component that is often most important: monitoring hearing, exactly which type of device to use, and how to use and care for your system. Audiologists can help!

Pro Defend  ($500-$1200/Pair): These are a true investment for the frequent shooter and dedicated wood worker.  Reports are extremely positive, because they allow you to hear and shut down when the noise starts. They act in real time to protect your ears as soon as the gun fires or the power tools start up. These are electronic devices which require batteries.  They can be custom molded for maximum protection and flexibility.  There are also an instant-fit type of protector, depending on the investment.

Custom Plugs ($100-200/pair): There are various levels of custom molded noise plugs. Some are basic molded plugs.  Others have filters to accommodate different situations (e.g. musicians plugs). These are all very effective at protecting the ears. There are no batteries for these products.

Over the counter products (Less than $5-10/pair): Examples include: Foam earplugs, ear putty, silicone noise plugs. Also noise muffs (Less than $40) can be included in this category. These plugs are the most difficult to get placed correctly in the ear.   The actual amount of hearing protection varies tremendously based on the ear canal shape and size.
Consider your ears’ health this fall while you are hunting, football and hockey events,  using the leaf blower, using power tools,  going on motorcycle rides, and taking care of noisy children or grandchildren. Those little things you do today to keep yourself healthy do pay off!

Dr. Molly Parker has been practicing Audiology in the Quad Cities for 17 years. She is the owner of Parker Audiology, PC. Call Dr. Alison Soto or Dr. Molly Parker today for an appointment at (563) 265-8003.