A social media incident sparks the conversation about earplugs. Are they worth it?
The concern about noise-induced hearing loss is real. Most cases of permanent hearing loss under a certain age are due to exposure to loud noises, resulting in a higher risk of dementia and an impaired ability to hear and communicate with others. A recent incident on social media sparks the question, “Is wearing earplugs to concerts good?”
Charlie Kirk and His Earplugs
On October 14, 2024, U.S. conservative leader and founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, posted a photo of himself and his wife on X at an Oregon Ducks game (a college football game) in which he was wearing earplugs.
The unassuming post got much backlash from X users of opposing political views for the presence of his earplugs. Sadly, the result of wearing ear protection at a sports game received a large amount of online bullying due to his political stance and potentially his religious views as well. They found something “odd” for which to question his masculinity, etc.
Is Wearing Earplugs to Concerts and Other Events Good?
A minority of individuals pushed back, however, noting that wearing earplugs is a wise move given the risk of noise-induced hearing loss at loud public events like sports games, concerts, clubs, etc. Prolonged exposure to sounds above 70 decibels will result in permanent hearing loss. If you believe you are in danger of getting hearing damage from a loud environment, do not worry about what others will think and protect yourself. Is wearing earplugs to concerts and other events good? Absolutely! Even the NY Times agrees!
Is Wearing Earplugs in Public Embarrassing?
The problem is that wearing hearing protection is not so common, which makes it seem odd or uncool to wear it. People have a similar obstacle with hearing aids. Today, you can find hearing aids that are practically invisible. Likewise, with earplugs, you can find ones that look “stylish,” such as the loop ones that the NY Times suggested.
Why Choose Custom Earplugs?
Not all earplugs are for all occasions, though. Clarity Audiology not only provides professional hearing treatment services but custom earplugs as well. There are even earplugs for professional musicians! Let us find a custom solution for you to protect your hearing in the Baltimore and Columbia areas.
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
You can call us today to schedule a FREE Hearing Protection Consultation at 410-698-6594! For more blog posts, news, and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.