Hearing loss treatment

Hearing aids

Hearing aids make sounds louder and clearer. NHS hearing aids are free, including batteries, repairs, check-ups and replacements. Modern NHS aids are small, digital and can often connect to phones.

NICE says hearing aids should be offered to people whose hearing loss affects their ability to communicate. If both ears are affected, you should usually be offered two aids.

Getting used to hearing aids

• it takes a few weeks for your brain to adjust
• start by wearing them at home, in quiet places, then build up
• everyday sounds may seem loud or strange at first
• go back to your hearing service if they are uncomfortable or not helping. They can be adjusted

You can also buy hearing aids privately, but there is no need to if the NHS ones suit you.

Earwax

If earwax is causing the problem, ear drops may soften it. Some GP surgeries and NHS services remove earwax, although not every area offers this. Never use cotton buds inside your ears.

Cochlear implants

A cochlear implant is a small device fitted during an operation. It sends sound signals straight to the hearing nerve. It may be offered on the NHS if you have severe to profound hearing loss and hearing aids do not give you enough benefit.

Other help

• Assistive devices, such as amplified or captioned phones, flashing doorbells and vibrating smoke alarms
• Lipreading classes, often run locally
• Hearing loops, found in many public places. Switch your hearing aid to the "T" setting to use them
• Tinnitus support, such as sound therapy and talking therapies. RNID and Tinnitus UK can help

Next, read about living well with hearing loss.