I've noticed a few threads on the subject of noise causing anger or anxiety. I once read something about noise increasing cortisol levels- we are wired to receive loud noises as a threat even though they may be harmless everyday noise. I wonder if people with MI are generally more sensitive in this area- or specific types of MI?

Anymore, it's everywhere, and the volumes higher. There seems to be a continuous loop of audio advertisements nearly everywhere. It drives me mad!

It's particularly hard to deal with at work. I once bought earplugs but never used them- I have to be able to hear an intercom and customers. I considered just using it in one ear but I was concerned it would provoke unwanted questions.

Any tips on how to numb it or bear it would be much appreciated.

[Angelique67]

You could put the plugs in loosely. That's what I used to do a lot. I'm out of the plugs I used to use because the drugstore I use doesn't carry that brand. Instead, the brand they carry causes terrible allergic reactions inside my ears which takes sometimes over a week to clear up again. I need some of that other kind desperately where I'm living.

Originally Posted by Angelique67

You could put the plugs in loosely. That's what I used to do a lot. I'm out of the plugs I used to use because the drugstore I use doesn't carry that brand. Instead, the brand they carry causes terrible allergic reactions inside my ears which takes sometimes over a week to clear up again. I need some of that other kind desperately where I'm living.

I might try that. Sorry to hear you can't find the kind that work for you. The kind I bought are bulky and conspicuous. I thought about cutting them in half but I'm not sure that would be safe.

[Angelique67]

Originally Posted by GreenMoss

I might try that. Sorry to hear you can't find the kind that work for you. The kind I bought are bulky and conspicuous. I thought about cutting them in half but I'm not sure that would be safe.

If they're not a bright color they won't be very noticeable. The important thing is to survive comfortably. Noise is a huge problem. I agree it probably isn't safe to cut them too small. Sometimes I jammed them in deeply and had scary times trying to get them out.

[Ripose]

If you shop around you will find many different types of earplugs that block various levels of sound. Even the ones that still allow you to hear normal conversation will take the edge off of harsh sounds. There are wax plugs, foam, plastic, some are used for a day and some can be reused indefinitely.
Look for the "DB Rating" to figure out how much sound they block. The higher the number the more they block.

[cool09]

I've had a problem with that over the last dozen years. When my irritability, agitation get chronic and severe every noise bothers me and seems amplified. It's a symptom of mood disorder. I've moved x7 the last ten yrs due to noise from neighbors. Ask your Doc about it.

i really don't like wearing earplugs.

i'm not sure why that's the case, but that's how it's always been for me.

in the cases where noise does get too much, i either move to another room where i can't hear it, or i cover my ears (which looks a bit odd, ) but it works

It is tempting to stick some tiny seashells in my ears...get that peaceful ocean sound while I'm at it

[mountain human]

Originally Posted by GreenMoss

It is tempting to stick some tiny seashells in my ears...get that peaceful ocean sound while I'm at it

Lol...I'm convinced that aging is part of the sensitivity to loud noises (especially loud noises coming from young people).