I’ve had sensitive hearing as long as I can remember. It’s a blessing and a curse. I can pick up details of my environment such as conversations and noises others don’t hear. When I’m trying to fall asleep I can often hear street noise, neighbors, animals, fans, beeping smoke detectors with low batteries, elevators etc. I’d leave notes for neighbors or talk to them in person, but there always seemed to be something that kept me awake.
The turning point for me was trying out earplugs while I slept. The first few nights were uncomfortable as I wasn’t used to sleeping with something in my ear, but I soon got used to it and now I can’ sleep without them unless I know neighbors are away or I’m sleeping outside of the city.
My preferred earplugs are Howard Leight MAX1 200-count box. I tend to reuse earplugs for several nights before discarding them. At this price though you can use them once and toss them.
I’ve had problems in the past with ear wax buildup (before I started using the earplugs), but I haven’t noticed any difference since using the plugs. If you do reuse your earplugs you may want to rinse them off and let them dry after you wake up and remove them. You’ll notice that they get softer and lose their effectiveness after several days.
To insert an earplug wash your hands first, then squeeze the tip in between your thumb and forefinger, rolling it a little. Insert it into your ear canal (it may help to pull on your ear with the other hand to open up the canal further) and hold it in until you feel the plug expand to fit into your ear. You may have to reinsert it several times to get the fit right.
If you have trouble sleeping, or concentrating during the day because of ambient noise, give earplugs a try. I don’t travel without them and have regained my ability to sleep the whole night through without being woken up.
