When should you see a doctor about hearing loss?

Hearing may seem blocked, muffled, or quieter in one or both ears. Causes include a build-up of earwax, irritation of the ear canal such as Swimmer's Ear, or a Middle Ear Infection. Repeated episodes with ringing, pressure, or spinning dizziness can occur with Meniere's Disease. A clinician can examine the ear and arrange a hearing test when needed; the pattern and speed of change help guide the assessment.

Write down when the change began, whether it affects one ear, and whether sounds are distorted. Note recent flights, loud noise, swimming, injury, fever, new medicines, pain, ringing, or balance problems. Keep water and objects out of the ear, and do not put cotton buds or other items into the canal. If wax is suspected, ask a clinician or pharmacist whether an appropriate softening product is suitable; removal may be recommended when wax is blocking the ear.

Seek urgent medical assessment for hearing loss that appears suddenly, especially in one ear, or follows a head injury. Get prompt help for severe ear pain, blood or fluid from the ear, marked dizziness, facial weakness, confusion, or trouble walking. Arrange a routine appointment for gradual loss, recurring blockage, difficulty following conversations, or hearing changes that do not settle.

Ask what the examination shows, whether wax or infection is present, and whether you need a hearing test or specialist review. You can also ask which symptoms should bring you back sooner and whether Ear Wax Removal is appropriate.