hi dr. nagler, I have prom coming up and idk what to do. I want to go but I'm hesitant because of the loud music there. I'm not sure what to do... what do you think? thanks for your time.
Kaitlyn
		
		
	 
Hi Sweet Kaitlyn -
Prom is one of the most glorious times in the life of of a high school girl - or guy.  You should absolutely go.  And you should absolutely look forward to going as well.
So here's what I'd do ...
Get a whole bunch of multi-colored earplugs and bring 'em with you.  Wear your own earplugs throughout the evening ... and if any of your friends are curious, offer a pair to them as well.  Make a fashion statement!!!!  
 
Kaitlyn, it is possible that your ears might 
temporarily ring a little more after prom because of the loud music - in spite of your wearing earplugs.  But the earplugs will prevent the loudness of the music from causing any actual damage to your auditory system - and your tinnitus will settle back down in a while.  Of course it's even more likely that your tinnitus won't increase at all.  I just don't want you to be surprised if it does.  Either way, you'll be fine.  So don't give it another thought.
One more thing -
I do not charge anybody for the advice I give here on the Doctors' Corner.  But I'm making an exception in your case.  Yup, I'm charging you.  In return for the information above, I want you to have the best time ever, and post a photo of yourself in your prom dress so we can all ooooh and ahhhh!  That's my charge.
Be well.  And thanks for posting such a good question.
Dr. Stephen Nagler