I have it in one ear. Super loud. Super annoying. I have no idea if it has anything to do with drinking.....I don't remember if I had it when I was drinking and I have been sober a long time. I am supposed to get a hearing aid, but it's super expensive and some other slightly more important financial issue always seems to be around. I have to listen to stories on my ipod when I go to sleep, otherwise it would be too loud.