Sleep Hygiene >> Noise
Use
Earplugs For Better Sleep
If
noise keeps you from getting a good night's sleep, you should
try ear plugs.
No, they are not for everyone. Some people can't tolerate
having something in their ear, can't get a good seal, or find
sleeping with them uncomfortable.
Nevertheless, earplugs are one of the easiest and least expensive
ways to virtually eliminate noise problems that may interfere
with your sleep. (Most earplugs cost less than $5, however,
you can pay as much as $200 for a high-tech pair.) Earplugs
are also easily portable, of course, and can be used anywhere
you need to block noise to get sleep.
If one type of ear plug does not work for you, don't give
up on ear plugs altogether. There are many different kinds
available.
There are potential health issues with using earplugs. Prolonged
use of earplugs may cause earwax to build and clog the outer
ear, since the plugs block the normal flow of earwax outward.
Therefore, it is important to clean both the earplugs and
ears between use in cases of prolonged use, such as when sleeping
with earplugs. Otherwise, tinnitus, hearing loss, discharge,
pain, and infection could occur.
For an excellent article from Slate.com on earplugs, click here.