Is My Job Safe for My Ears with 10 Day Old Noise-Induced Tinnitus?

[Zinnia]

I work where there are sometimes loud bells. Yesterday, I was standing next to one when it went off. It hurt and think it's caused an increase in pressure (maybe even louder ringing...not quite sure.)

Do you think it's safe to be in a loud environment? I'm thinking I should wear an earplug?

 

[Michael Leigh]

@Zinnia
My article: Hyperacusis, as I see it, in the link I sent you explains about using earplugs when sensitive to sounds.
Michael

 

[Zinnia]

Now I'm worrying more and more that the bell has done even more damage. I was standing right under it (I'm not normally there that time of day) when it went off. From what I read, it could have been at least 110 decibels. I covered my ears as fast as possible but the sound definitely got me.

I feel like I have the worst luck. Do you all think this could have caused more damage?

 

[Zinnia]

@Zinnia
My article: Hyperacusis, as I see it, in the link I sent you explains about using earplugs when sensitive to sounds.
Michael

Thank you. I wouldn't want to wear an earplug all of the time, just around very loud sounds as you mention in your article. That bell yesterday was so loud and now I'm afraid it has done more harm and of course, don't want to worsen anything further!

 

[Wojtek Kalka]

Just get custom musician ear plugs and use them all the time .. get them with -15db and -25db, -15db does not affect daily life at all

 

[Michael B]

Sometimes a loud sound, such as the bell you mentioned, can set off a spike which could last several days or so. Hopefully, it will subside for you soon. It might be wise to carry earplugs with you to wear in cases of emergency but only you would know if it's allowed by your administration.

 

[Michael Leigh]

I wouldn't want to wear an earplug all of the time, just around very loud sounds

Your auditory system is sensitive at the moment and this will need time to calm down. It is fine to use noise reducing earplugs temporarily around loud sounds but try not to get used to using them, because you risk making your auditory system hypersensitive.

I advise you keep away from ENT doctors for the moment as they aren't needed at this time. Start using a sound machine at night, to help desensitize your sensitivity to sound. The best treatment for noise induced tinnitus providing there is no additional symptoms: dizziness, balance problems or pain in the ears; is to leave it alone and give it time for your ears to recover.
Michael

 

[Zinnia]

I'm so scared and don't know what to do. The sound in my ear is now higher pitched and louder. Do you think this increase will subside considering this trauma happened only 12 days ago?

 

[Rubenslash]

It might make sense to take a break of a couple of weeks if you're ears are that sensitive now, usually it settles down with time.

 

[Zinnia]

It might make sense to take a break of a couple of weeks if you're ears are that sensitive now, usually it settles down with time.

I'm trying to get in touch with my doctor. I don't like calling out sick but feel like I need to pamper my ear.

 

[Zinnia]

Do you all think staying out of work for a little bit is necessary and something I should do to be safe?

I feel like people don't understand this. I've told 2 people in the building and they both had pretty blank responses. I appreciate the point of view from this community since you all understand what this is like.

Thanks for any input.

 

[Michael Leigh]

@Zinnia
I advise using noise reducing earplugs and not the type that totally block out all sound. Even when wearing earplugs, some sound (if loud enough) can still reach the inner ear through the mastoid bone. This is the hard piece of bone behind each ear. It is honeycombed with air pockets.
Michael

 

[Zinnia]

@Zinnia
I advise using noise reducing earplugs and not the type that totally block out all sound. Even when wearing earplugs, some sound (if loud enough) can still reach the inner ear through the mastoid bone. This is the hard piece of bone behind each ear. It is honeycombed with air pockets.
Michael

The earplugs I've been using w/ loud kids are rated at 32. What type of earplug would even block out all sound?

 

[Michael Leigh]

The earplugs I've been using w/ loud kids are rated at 32. What type of earplug would even block out all sound?

I don't think you are following me? I don't recommend that you use earplugs that block out all sound. The right type of earplugs are noise reducing earplugs. They reduce external sound but don't totally block it. If you use earplugs that blockout all sound and wear them for long durations, you risk making your hearing more sensitive. This can make the tinnitus worse

 

[Zinnia]

I don't think you are following me? I don't recommend that you use earplugs that block out all sound. The right type of earplugs are noise reducing earplugs. They reduce external sound but don't totally block it. If you use earplugs that blockout all sound and wear them for long durations, you risk making your hearing more sensitive. This can make the tinnitus worse

Gotcha. I want my ears to habituate! I realize that blocking out sound is a bad idea. Thank you

 

[Rubenslash]

Gotcha. I want my ears to habituate! I realize that blocking out sound is a bad idea. Thank you

Try to protect your other ear as well, it's possible that your bad ear reacts to incoming sounds from your 'good ear'.

 

[Michael Leigh]

Gotcha. I want my ears to habituate! I realize that blocking out sound is a bad idea. Thank you

Noise reducing earplugs have little filters built into them. They vary a lot in price. Here is an example what they look like: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Nonoise-Motor-New-Generation-Ear-Plugs-Ceramic-Filter/182456256533?_trksid=p2045573.c100642.m3226&_trkparms=aid=555017&algo=PL.CASSINI&ao=1&asc=43049&meid=17c05db0bcee4c078f92e5080db189f8&pid=100642&rk=1&rkt=1&

I advise you to start using a sound machine at night to help you habituate. My articles explain how to use it.

 

[Zinnia]

Try to protect your other ear as well, it's possible that your bad ear reacts to incoming sounds from your 'good ear'.

Yeah, that sounds smart to do. How do you think that could happen, I'm wondering? Could you maybe explain your suggestion because I think it could help me, and I'm trying to do the best for this at this point!
Thanks so much

 

[kasjopejashe]

I have the same problem. I think i'll try the earplugs. :/

 

[Zinnia]

@kasjopejashe Be aware, if not already, of the occlusion effect when speaking loudly. It won't only sound louder but it will shoot the increased louder sound back into your ears possibly causing a spike. There's no easy answer sadly.