Answers to some of the most common questions we’re asked about hearing tests, hearing aids, ear wax removal, hearing care, appointments, pricing and more.
Answering your questions
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Common signs of hearing loss include difficulty following conversations, particularly when there is background noise, frequently asking people to repeat themselves, difficulty understanding speech on the phone, turning up the TV or radio more than usual, and experiencing tinnitus. Hearing loss can have many causes, including age-related changes (presbycusis), exposure to loud noise, ear infections, a build-up of ear wax, injury, certain medications and genetic conditions. Ask for an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if you experience sudden hearing loss in one or both ears, if your hearing becomes noticeably worse over a few days or weeks, or if hearing loss is accompanied by symptoms such as earache or discharge. These symptoms may need prompt medical assessment rather than a routine hearing appointment. NHS guidance provides further information.
There is no cure for most types of permanent hearing loss, however, modern hearing aids can significantly improve your ability to hear and understand speech, helping you stay connected with the people and activities that matter to you. If you think your hearing may have changed, the best place to start is with a hearing assessment. Amplify Hearing offers free hearing tests for people aged 55 and over. One of our audiologists will carry out a comprehensive assessment to understand your hearing and determine whether any hearing loss is present. They will then explain the results clearly and discuss any appropriate next steps with you.
Hearing loss can sometimes affect one ear more than the other. Your audiologist will assess your hearing and discuss the most appropriate options for your individual needs. Depending on the type and degree of hearing loss, this may include a hearing aid or another hearing solution. We don’t currently run our own hearing loss support groups, but our audiologists can provide information about useful resources, organisations and online communities that may be able to offer additional support. Hearing loss often develops gradually, which means you may not notice the early signs. A hearing test can identify changes in your hearing and help you understand how well you are hearing in everyday situations. Early identification means you can receive appropriate advice and support sooner.
How frequently you need a hearing test will depend on your age, hearing health and previous results. As a general guide, consider having your hearing checked every two years, or sooner if you notice a change. If you wear hearing aids, regular reviews allow your audiologist to monitor your hearing and adjust your devices when necessary. A hearing assessment is simple, comfortable and usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. During your appointment, we will: talk to you about your hearing, lifestyle and any concerns you may have. Examine your ears and ear canals using an otoscope. Carry out a series of hearing tests to measure how well you hear different pitches and levels of sound. Explain your results clearly. Discuss any recommendations or options that may benefit you. There is no obligation to purchase hearing aids following your assessment. If possible, please bring details of any medication you are currently taking and any previous hearing test results you may have. No. An online hearing test can provide a useful initial indication of how well you hear, but it cannot examine your ears or diagnose the cause of a hearing change. A face-to-face assessment allows an audiologist to examine your ear canals, conduct calibrated hearing tests and give you personalised advice.
Absolutely. You’re very welcome to bring a friend, partner or family member with you for support. Having someone familiar with your everyday hearing experiences can also be helpful when discussing your hearing and listening needs with your audiologist.
If your hearing test shows that you don’t need hearing aids, your audiologist will explain your results and advise you on how to look after your hearing. We may also recommend regular hearing checks so that any future changes can be identified early. We offer a wide range of modern digital hearing aids, including rechargeable and Bluetooth-enabled models, the latest AI-powered hearing technology, discreet hearing aids that sit behind the ear or within the ear canal, and hearing technology incorporated into spectacle frames. Your audiologist will help you choose the most appropriate option based on your hearing, lifestyle, preferences and budget.
As an independent hearing care provider, we offer hearing aids from many of the world’s leading manufacturers, including Starkey, ReSound, Widex, Oticon, Phonak and Signia, as well as exclusive access to Beltone hearing aids. This means we can recommend hearing technology based on what is most suitable for you, rather than being limited to one particular manufacturer.
No. Modern hearing aids are sophisticated devices that are individually programmed using the results of your hearing assessment. Rather than simply making everything louder, they are designed to provide amplification where you need it while using advanced technology to help you hear speech more clearly and manage unwanted background noise. If hearing loss affects both ears, two hearing aids are often recommended because they can provide more balanced sound and help with identifying where sounds come from. However, one hearing aid or another specialist solution may be appropriate in some circumstances. Your audiologist will make a recommendation based on the hearing in each ear and your individual needs.
Modern hearing aids have come a long way and many are extremely discreet. We offer a variety of styles, including small devices that sit neatly behind the ear and very discreet options that fit within the ear canal. Your audiologist can talk you through the different choices available. Everyone is different, but it is normal for your brain to need a little time to adjust to hearing sounds that may have been missing for some time. Many people begin noticing significant benefits within the first few weeks. We provide ongoing support, adjustments and fine-tuning to help you get the best possible experience from your hearing aids. We’ll show you how to clean, maintain and store your hearing aids correctly. We’ll also provide ongoing aftercare and can help with routine maintenance, adjustments and any questions you may have about looking after your devices. First, check that the hearing aid is switched on and has a charged battery or a fresh disposable battery. You can also check whether earwax or moisture is blocking the dome, filter, receiver or microphone opening. If it still does not work, contact your local Amplify Hearing practice. Avoid taking the hearing aid apart or attempting a repair yourself. Hearing aids commonly last for several years, but their lifespan depends on the model, how often they are worn and how well they are maintained. Regular cleaning, servicing and professional aftercare can help keep them working effectively. Your hearing may also change over time, so periodic assessments and reprogramming are important.
Whistling or feedback can occur if the hearing aid is not inserted correctly, the fitting has changed or ear wax is blocking the ear canal. It can also indicate that part of the device needs cleaning or replacement. Your audiologist can examine your ears, check the fit and adjust the hearing aid if necessary. Manufacturer warranties usually cover specified faults or manufacturing problems. They do not necessarily cover loss, theft or accidental damage. Warranty lengths and exclusions vary by product and package. Your audiologist will explain your cover before you order. You may also wish to check whether your hearing aids can be covered by household or specialist insurance.
Microsuction is a safe and effective method of removing excess ear wax using a gentle suction device. Unlike traditional ear syringing or irrigation, microsuction does not use water. The clinician can usually see the ear canal throughout the procedure, allowing the wax to be removed carefully and precisely. A build-up of ear wax can sometimes cause symptoms including a blocked or full sensation in the ear, muffled hearing, tinnitus, discomfort or itching. If you are unsure whether ear wax is causing your symptoms, we can examine your ears and advise you on the most appropriate next steps. Ear wax removal is generally comfortable and should not be painful. During microsuction, you may hear the suction equipment and occasionally feel a slight pulling or tickling sensation. Your clinician will explain the procedure before starting and will make sure you are comfortable throughout.
An ear wax removal appointment typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes, although this can vary depending on the amount and consistency of the wax. No. You can book an ear wax removal appointment directly with Amplify Hearing without a referral. Microsuction is suitable for many people, but the clinician must first consider your ear health, symptoms and medical history. Tell the practice before your appointment if you have experienced ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, grommets, an active infection, discharge, significant ear pain or sudden hearing loss. The clinician will decide whether treatment can proceed safely or whether you should seek medical advice.
Most people tolerate microsuction well. The equipment can sound loud, and some people may experience temporary discomfort, sensitivity, dizziness or a change in their tinnitus. Tell the clinician immediately if you feel uncomfortable. They can pause or stop the procedure at any time.
Very hard or impacted wax cannot always be removed safely in one appointment. Your clinician may recommend additional softening treatment and arrange another visit. You will only be charged or rebooked in accordance with the terms explained by your local practice.
Your local practice will tell you whether to use a wax-softening product before your appointment and, if so, for how long. Do not use ear drops if you have, or suspect you may have, a perforated eardrum, unless a suitable healthcare professional has advised you to do so. You should also tell the clinic about previous ear surgery, grommets, infections, pain or discharge.
No. Cotton buds and other objects can push wax deeper into the ear canal or cause injury. There is also no reliable evidence that ear candles or home ear-vacuum devices remove earwax safely. The NHS advises against inserting fingers, cotton buds or other objects into the ear.
Your clinician will provide any specific aftercare advice you need following your appointment. This may include keeping your ears dry for a short period and avoiding inserting cotton buds or other objects into your ears.
Hearing aid prices vary depending on the technology, features and level of performance you choose. We offer clear, transparent pricing and will explain the different options available so you can find a hearing solution that meets both your needs and your budget.
Yes. We offer a 60-day money-back guarantee on our hearing aids, giving you time to experience them in your everyday life. The 60-day period begins on the date your hearing aids are fitted. To receive a refund, the hearing aids must be returned within that period in accordance with the applicable terms, together with the original packaging, accessories and other supplied items. Charges may apply for damaged or missing items, and a consultation or fitting fee may apply at some locations. Your audiologist will explain the complete terms before you order.
Our hearing aids include free aftercare for the lifetime of the devices, along with a warranty of up to five years. Aftercare includes routine adjustments, annual hearing reassessments and reprogramming, fine-tuning, ongoing advice and help with connecting compatible Bluetooth devices. Our ear wax removal service starts from £50 for one ear or £80 for both ears. Hearing tests are free for people aged 55 and over. Amplify Hearing audiologists are based within selected local independent opticians across the UK, providing comfortable, professional consulting rooms within convenient community locations. Amplify Hearing is an independent hearing care provider. Our independence means we can offer hearing aids from a wide range of leading manufacturers and recommend solutions based on your individual hearing, lifestyle, preferences and budget rather than being restricted to one manufacturer. You’ll also receive ongoing care and support from your local audiology team.
Booking an appointment is easy. You can book online or call us on our freephone number. Simply click the Book an appointment button at the top or bottom of this page to get started. Amplify Hearing provides hearing assessments for adults aged 18 and over.
If you are seeking a hearing test for someone under 18, please speak to their GP, who can advise on the appropriate children’s audiology service.
You do not usually need a GP or ENT referral to book a hearing test, hearing consultation or ear wax assessment with Amplify Hearing. If your audiologist identifies something that requires medical investigation, they will explain the appropriate next step. Yes. Our audiologists can assess your hearing, discuss how tinnitus affects you and explain appropriate management options. Tinnitus can have several causes, and hearing aids may help some people when tinnitus occurs alongside hearing loss. If your symptoms require medical investigation, your audiologist will advise you about the next step. Home visits may be available if you are unable to attend your local practice. Availability and any applicable charges vary by area. Contact Amplify Hearing or your local practice to discuss your circumstances.
Yes, provided you have their permission to share their details. You can help arrange the appointment, and they are welcome to bring you or another trusted person with them for support.
Hearing loss & diagnosis questions & answers
What are the signs of hearing loss?
What causes hearing loss?
When should I seek urgent medical help for hearing loss?
Is there a cure for hearing loss?
How can I find out if I have hearing loss?
What happens if I only have hearing loss in one ear?
Does Amplify Hearing offer support groups?
Hearing test questions & answers
Why should I have a hearing test?
How often should I have my hearing tested?
What happens during a hearing test at Amplify Hearing?
What should I bring to my hearing test appointment?
Is an online hearing test the same as a professional assessment?
Can I bring someone with me to my hearing test appointment?
What if I don't need a hearing aid?
Hearing aid questions & answers
What types of hearing aids do you offer?
Which hearing aid brands do you offer?
Will hearing aids make everything sound loud?
Should I wear one hearing aid or two?
Are hearing aids noticeable?
How long does it take to adjust to new hearing aids?
How do I care for my hearing aids?
What should I do if my hearing aid stops working?
How long do hearing aids last?
Why is my hearing aid whistling?
Does the hearing-aid warranty cover loss or accidental damage?
Ear wax removal and microsuction questions & answers
What is microsuction ear wax removal?
How do I know if I need ear wax removal?
Is the ear wax removal procedure painful?
How long does an ear wax removal appointment take?
Do I need a referral for an ear wax removal appointment?
Is microsuction ear wax removal suitable for everyone?
Are there any side effects from microsuction ear wax removal?
What if all the ear wax cannot be removed?
Should I soften the ear wax before my appointment?
Can I remove ear wax with cotton buds or ear candles?
What should I do after an ear wax removal procedure?
Pricing and guarantee questions & answers
How much do hearing aids cost?
Is there a money-back guarantee?
What are the terms of the 60-day money-back guarantee?
What does free aftercare include?
How much does ear wax removal cost?
Is a hearing test always free?
General questions & answers
Where are your practices located?
Why choose Amplify Hearing?
How do I book an appointment?
What ages do Amplify Hearing audiologists see?
Do I need a GP referral?
Can Amplify Hearing help with tinnitus?
Are home hearing visits available?
Can I book an appointment for someone else?
Find your local practice
We have over 480 practices across the UK, with a growing network and more practices opening all the time.
Find your nearest Amplify Hearing practice and arrange to see your local independent, qualified audiologist. Our hearing care professionals will build a relationship with you, taking the time to make sure you get the very best advice and the most from your hearing aids. When we talk through your hearing options with you, you’re guaranteed to receive unbiased hearing advice you can trust.