Regular hearing checks are crucial for detecting early signs of hearing loss or other auditory issues. Early intervention can prevent further damage and improve treatment outcomes.

The frequency of hearing checks depends on various factors, including age, occupational noise exposure, and personal history. As a general guideline, adults should have a hearing evaluation at least once every three years.

A hearing check can help identify hearing loss, assess the severity of any impairment, and determine appropriate treatment options. It can also detect underlying medical conditions affecting hearing, such as ear infections or tumours.

It's recommended to have a baseline hearing evaluation in adulthood, ideally by the age of 50. However, individuals with risk factors such as exposure to loud noise, family history of hearing loss, or certain medical conditions may need earlier screenings.

Hearing checks should be conducted by a qualified audiologist or hearing professional. These professionals have the expertise and specialist equipment to assess hearing function accurately.

During a hearing check, your audiologist will review your medical history, perform a physical examination of the ears, and conduct various hearing tests to assess your hearing sensitivity, ability to understand speech, and other auditory functions.

The duration of a hearing check can vary depending on the complexity of the evaluation and individual factors. Typically, it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to complete the assessment.

Many health insurance plans cover hearing checks, especially if they are deemed medically necessary. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage details and any out-of-pocket expenses.

If a hearing check indicates hearing loss, your audiologist will discuss treatment options tailored to your needs. These may include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, communication strategies, or referral to other healthcare professionals for further evaluation.

While some causes of hearing loss may be preventable, regular hearing checks can help detect issues early and prevent further deterioration through timely intervention and appropriate management strategies.

Excessive ear wax, also known as cerumen, can occur due to various factors such as genetics, the shape of your ear canal, frequent use of earbuds or hearing aids, or simply as a natural mechanism to protect the ear.

Symptoms may include earache, partial hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), a feeling of fullness in the ear, itching or irritation in the ear canal, and sometimes even dizziness.

While ear wax serves as a protective barrier for the ear canal, excessive buildup can lead to discomfort and hearing problems. Removing excess ear wax can alleviate symptoms, improve hearing, and prevent potential complications such as ear infections.

While GP’s did previously provide ear wax removal services, many have now stopped offering this service due to several reasons: Specialised Skills and Equipment: Removal of ear wax requires specific skills and specialist equipment, such as micro-suction or irrigation devices. GP’s may not have the necessary training or access to the equipment needed for safe and effective wax removal. Time and Resources: Ear wax removal can be a time-consuming process, especially if there is a significant amount of wax or if it is impacted. GP’s may not have the time or resources to dedicate to multiple appointments for ear wax removal, especially when they have other patients to attend to. Availability of Specialist Services: In many areas, there are now dedicated ear wax clinics or audiology practices that specialise in wax removal. These are staffed by professionals who have specific training and experience in dealing with ear wax issues, providing a more specialised and efficient service. NHS Guidelines: In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) issued guidelines in 2004 recommending the use of certain medications for the treatment of various medical conditions. These guidelines are developed based on extensive research and evidence-based medicine and are frequently updated to ensure the best possible care for patients.

The frequency of ear wax removal varies from person to person. It's generally recommended to avoid removing ear wax too frequently as it can disrupt the ear's natural cleaning process. If you're experiencing symptoms of excessive ear wax, it's best to consult with a professional for personalised advice.

Professional ear wax removal ensures safe and effective removal of excess wax without causing damage to the ear canal or eardrum. It can help restore hearing, alleviate discomfort, and reduce the risk of complications associated with improper removal techniques.

Ear wax removal methods include irrigation (flushing the ear with water), suction (using a specialised vacuum device), and manual removal with specialized tools. The method chosen depends on the severity of the wax build-up and individual circumstances.

When performed by a trained professional, ear wax removal should not be painful. You may experience slight discomfort or pressure during the procedure, but it should not be painful. If you experience pain, inform your audiologist immediately.

While there are over-the-counter ear wax removal kits available, it's important to use them with caution. Improper removal techniques or the use of sharp objects can damage the ear canal or eardrum. It's generally safer to seek professional assistance for ear wax removal, especially if you're experiencing symptoms or have a history of ear problems.

While some degree of ear wax is normal and healthy, you can help prevent excessive buildup by avoiding the use of cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears, using earplugs when swimming, and seeking prompt treatment for ear infections or other ear-related issues. Regular ear hygiene and monitoring can also help maintain ear health.