Originally Posted by
Kapusta
I am not sure I understand your second point. The ringing is not loud enough to drown out a siren. Its not like I am functionally deaf. Loud still sounds loud. If anything, I am MORE aware of loudness than most people due to my being acutely aware of the damage that it causes. I'm the first one to stick earplugs in on a long drive or when hearing loud music. But I would not even THINK about wearing them when riding a bike. No way.
Yeah, that question was definitely one from lack of knowledge. I was trying to think of an analogy, and the best I could think of was that if I have a serious sharp pain sensation in my foot chronically, I might be in danger of not noticing when I step on glass or something else actually sharp. I think what you're telling me is that the ringing is distinct enough from actual sounds that you don't confuse the two and may actually be more acutely aware of the actual sounds.
I don't impair my hearing when I ride because it is a sense I use effectively for safety reasons, so my practice agrees with yours. I'm not bothered by other people finding they have other needs and strategies, however.