[Heatherr]

I've been trying a variety of methods block noise as I'm extremely noise sensitive. Humming of computers, lights, engines, etcs. all set off my migraines and vision problems.

The problem with the solid ear buds is that they block too much airflow, which creates a vacuum effect in my ear canal, messing with my vestibular system and vertigo issues!

The musician earplugs I've used only block about 20db. The in ear noise cancelling ear buds seem to work best... they physically block noise by being in your ear, then by sending out sound waves that are opposite of the bothersome background noises, and then the music. But the prices range a TON. I got a pair that were on sale for $30 - they work great in theory, but after a few weeks are starting to fail just like the reviews said They are cheap!

I need to invest in some good ones to keep functioning! Can anyone recommend any?

Or any other method to block out all those buzzing/ humming noises???

THANK YOU

[Mark in Idaho]

I am a believer in the cheap yellow foam cylinders. They block up to 30dB. They do great at blocking background noise without making conversations difficult. They insert easily if you twist them rather than roll them. You can buy them for a dollar or two per pair or by the box for an even better price and always have a fresh clean pair handy. They wash out well in a sink with hot water flowing over them or by putting them in a delicates laundry bag and washing them in the laundry.

More expensive is not necessarily better.

[Heatherr]

Thanks for the note - unfortunately those types of solid plugs disrupt my vertigo...I need some sort of airflow. I've found the musician's plugs and ear buds for music do allow that, hence using those types currently.

Originally Posted by Mark in Idaho

I am a believer in the cheap yellow foam cylinders. They block up to 30dB. They do great at blocking background noise without making conversations difficult. They insert easily if you twist them rather than roll them. You can buy them for a dollar or two per pair or by the box for an even better price and always have a fresh clean pair handy. They wash out well in a sink with hot water flowing over them or by putting them in a delicates laundry bag and washing them in the laundry.

More expensive is not necessarily better.