Hearing loss is a common issue, especially as one ages. If you experience hearing problems, consult a GP as it might have a treatable cause.

Signs of Hearing Loss

Identifying hearing loss can be challenging. Common signs include:

• Difficulty hearing clearly, especially in noisy environments.
• Asking people to repeat themselves.
• Listening to music or watching TV at higher volumes.
• Struggling to hear on the phone.
• Finding it hard to follow conversations.
• Feeling fatigued or stressed from concentrating on listening.

Sometimes, others may notice your hearing problems before you do.

Causes of Hearing Loss

Numerous factors can cause hearing loss, some treatable, others permanent. While your symptoms may offer clues, it's crucial not to self-diagnose. Consult a GP for advice.

Common causes and symptoms:

• Gradual hearing loss in both ears: Age or prolonged exposure to loud noises.
• Difficulty hearing in one ear, earache, pressure sensation, or ear discharge: Ear infection.
• Difficulty hearing in one ear, itchiness, or feeling of ear blockage: Earwax buildup.
• Sudden hearing loss after ear infection, loud noise, or pressure change (e.g., flying): Perforated eardrum.
• Sudden hearing loss with dizziness, vertigo, or tinnitus: Labyrinthitis or Ménière's disease.

When to Seek Medical Help

• Non-urgent: See a GP if your hearing is gradually worsening or hasn't improved after ear infection or earwax treatment. Some pharmacies and opticians offer free hearing tests.

• Urgent: Request an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if you experience sudden hearing loss, worsening hearing over days or weeks, or hearing loss along with other symptoms like earache or ear discharge. It may not be serious, but prompt evaluation is essential.

Online Hearing Test

You can check your hearing with RNID's free online hearing test.

Treatments for Hearing Loss

Treatment depends on the cause:

• Ear infections may require antibiotics.
• Earwax buildup can be treated with drops or removal.
• If a GP can't treat it, they may refer you to a hearing specialist.

For permanent hearing loss, specialists may recommend hearing aids or implants to improve sound perception.

The National Health Service (NHS) provides comprehensive healthcare services free at the point of use for residents of the United Kingdom.