If a hearing loss is detected, whether temporary or permanent, you may well feel concerned or even a little afraid. This is a normal reaction.

It is essential that your hearing loss be properly explained to you by a caring professional so that you understand why you’re not hearing well.

• You understand the implications of the hearing loss on your communication capabilities
• Your audiologist explains any further investigations that may be required
• A variety of possible treatment or management plans are made available to you.

You will need this to be able to make an educated decision on ‘where to from here’.

If the hearing loss is in the outer or middle ears, you will usually be referred to a doctor or Ear, Nose and Throat specialist for medical or surgical management. Repeated hearing assessment after ENT management is recommended.

If the hearing loss is in the inner ear or on the nerve, the first step is to decide if further medical assessment is required.

If no medical assessment or treatment is required, or if medical help is not able to fix an outer or middle ear problem,  you will be offered a hearing aid consultation and trial.