Do earplugs prevent tinnitus sufferers from further damage? I believe they do not - not totally. I believe if you have tinnitus and think earplugs will block out damaging volume, you're wrong. Plugs may slow down the progression of tinnitus in my opinion. I've been playing with fire for years. I have an arsenal of different styles of plugs. After a a couple memorable nights of loud music, with plugs, the next few days were horrible. I took my chances and found out that even with plugs, the tinnitus was getting stronger over time. Duh. Let's say I had stitches in my leg and the doctor said Don't shower for a few days. I ignored him and showered and the wound opened. When he asked why I ignored his order, I replied, I don't know. Then after a few days I showered again but the wound never had a real chance of healing properly. In time, it did heal shut but looked like a wide deep scar with no sensation to touch at all. And after many years only regained a very slight feeling sensation. I do have a scar like this. And I have tinnitus. I'm an idiot.