Hearing loss can range from mild to very severe and there are a number of causes.  Exposure to loud noise, natural age related degeneration, infections and head injuries are common causes, as are genetic conditions, certain diseases, tinnitus and exposure to certain chemicals or medications.  In some cases, hearing loss might be temporary, for example, if wax or a foreign object is blocking the ear canal. 

Hearing loss can occur at any age, not just when we grow older.  As soon as you start to experience hearing loss it’s absolutely vital to have a hearing test so you can get help managing your symptoms and benefit from advice on how to minimise any future hearing loss.

We’re all used to knowing that we should have regular dental and eye checks and it should be the same for our hearing.

When booking in for a hearing test or advanced hearing assessment at Cathedral Hearing, our audiologist will talk through your hearing concerns, carry out a full ear examination and help determine appropriate treatment and management of any identified issues. Please talk to us if you have any concerns or queries and we will be happy to advise.

You can book a hearing test or advanced hearing assessment directly with an qualified audiologist without needing a GP referral.  Please note however, if you plan to access NHS hearing aids, you will need to contact your GP as we don’t provide NHS hearing aids.

Laura, our audiologist previously worked for the NHS and has extensive knowledge of what is available.  At our hearing test or advanced hearing assessment, she can advise on how choosing an independent clinic provides a different experience to the NHS.  For example, a wider range of hearing aids can be offered to patients along with personalised aftercare demonstrate the benefits available.

We like to start by saying, although not essential, do bring someone with you if you would like to when you come for your hearing test if it make’s you feel more comfortable.  It can be useful too, as someone else can give their thoughts on how potential hearing loss is impacting you and those around you.

In terms of timing, you will be with us for 60 minutes for a Hearing Test or 90 minutes for an Advanced Hearing Assessment which includes a demonstration of suitable hearing aids, if required.  Please contact us if you need further information about hearing tests and assessments or visit our hearing test page for full details.

The effects of tinnitus can be temporary, intermittent or constant and whilst the condition cannot be cured, there are different ways the effects can be positively managed to help patients cope better with tinnitus symptoms . Our audiologist can offer advice and support and, if required, demonstrate any suitable hearing devices which have special features to help relieve tinnitus symptoms. Please contact the clinic for further details. There’s also lots of useful information from the registered charity, Tinnitus UK on their website at this link:

https://tinnitus.org.uk/