Comments on Profile Post by RishRamsey

Yep, earplugs will do it.

Got to keep them sterile every time you use them, plus try not to wear them too long and too often.

@Damocles , not wearing them often is unfortunately hard given bad hyperacusis. Any tips on keeping them sterile?

What type are you using?

Silicon or Foam?

@RishRamsey I was getting ear infections a lot from wearing earplugs when I first developed T. Now, every few days, I rinse them under the tap, then put them in boiling water with salt, and let them sit for a while, then let them air dry. That seems to work for me. Obviously they’re silicone plugs - not foam.

@Damocles They are foam ones. Think you can't do much with them other than to replace after each time you wear them.

@Steph1710 Thanks for sharing. What was your infection like? Did you have pain? I do have pain (Which is substantially different from my regular H pain). And how long did they take to start clearing up? It's been 5 days now since this second one and it's still there. I think the 1st one didn't heal properly as it only took 2-3 days to come back.

Yeah, @RishRamsey. Foam ones are the most hygienic. I've never had an infection from using foam. However it's still possible by wearing them too long, because you're then creating a sweaty, anaerobic environment inside the ear, which is perfect for certain bacteria that can cause problematic infections.

If you ever switch to silicon plugs (which are way more comfortable for long periods of use, and better for understanding conversation etc.) make sure to wash them with anti-bacterial or alcohol wipes after every use.

Also like @Steph1710 said, give them a clean in warm water with a sterile solution, every couple of weeks.

Noted @Damocles. I think what helps foam earplugs being hygienic is that you dispose them after every use. I've been guilty of using a single pair more than once - won't do it now.