Introduction

Many people wait a number of years before seeking help for hearing loss, but the longer we wait, the more we are likely to miss out on conversations and to start avoiding social engagements because of embarrassment at not hearing properly.

As well as the effects on our confidence, the longer a hearing loss goes untreated, the less benefit we are likely to get from hearing aids. This is because an untreated hearing loss leads to decay in the nerve pathways that connect the ear to the brain and after some time if we do get a hearing aid these nerve pathways may not recover and remain permanently closed.

If your hearing is not what it used to be then you may find you are having difficulty hearing particularly in situations where there is background noise, that people seem to be mumbling or that you have to turn up the TV or radio higher than is acceptable to other family members.

You can seek help for a suspected hearing loss by firstly making a visit to your GP or a private hearing aid dispenser. If you are experiencing any ear related symptoms, then a visit to the GP is recommended as if appropriate you can be referred to an Ears, Nose and Throat specialist. If a private hearing aid dispenser identifies a medical problem they too will refer you to a doctor.

If a family member or friend has suggested your hearing may not what it used to be or you suspect it yourself, why not take our quick quiz to see whether you might have a degree of hearing loss and benefit from seeking help.