EarPlugs and Perceived Voice Volume

Hi all, I have not really used earplugs in the past before my T & H (8/2014), and probably should have, but I will need them soon for an event. I've bought several kinds such as foam, silicone, etc. Each time that I insert the plugs, no matter which kind, my voice seems really loud when talking. When I place my ear muffs on, without the plugs, I don't hear the same loudness when I speak. My question is, is this normal? Will the perceived volume of my voice, further my problems? Thanks very much to all-

 

It's normal. For sure.

 

Although your question sounds sill. I know exactly what you're saying. I ride a motorbike with earplugs in. When i talk with with earplugs in, especially with my crash hemet on, my voice is really loud. I'm no doctor. But i'm sure it doesn't cause any problems. It's just paranoia.

 

Sigep0519

Yes its normal, if you really want to hear something interesting. Take a big swig of soda pop, hold it in, close your mouth and listen. LOL I gurrantee it will amuse you too

Oh, don't forget to swallow it LOL


Louie

 

When you reduce outside sound by obstructing your ear canal (called air conduction,) you automatically perceive the vibrations of your own voice as louder ( via bone conduction.)

You are wise to protect your ears during any exposure to loud sounds. Invest in a reliable pair. I personally use the following:

http://www.etymotic.com/er20.html

Bless you,

Dr Charlie

 

So is it just a perception or is it really louder ?

 

It's normal.

I have found that this effect is worse with my heavy duty ear muffs and silicon plugs that completely shut the ear canal off. I find that my custom fit musician ear plugs aren't as bad because they use filters which allow a tiny bit of sound in and out of the ear that reduces the occlusion effect.