What should you do if you think you have hearing loss?

Suspecting a change in your hearing can feel unsettling, but taking a few practical steps makes it easier to understand what is happening and what may help. The most useful first move is to have your hearing measured rather than trying to judge it yourself.

Book a hearing assessment

An audiologist can measure your hearing across a range of pitches, check how clearly you understand speech, and examine your ears. The assessment is straightforward and comfortable, and it gives you an accurate picture instead of guesswork. In Australia you generally do not need a referral to see an audiologist for a hearing assessment, so you can arrange one directly.

What can you do before your appointment?

A little preparation helps you get more from the visit. It can be useful to:

• Note the situations where listening feels hardest, such as noisy venues, phone calls or the television
• Write down when you first noticed the change and whether it affects one or both ears
• List any ringing, buzzing, fullness, dizziness or ear discomfort
• Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical history
• Consider bringing a family member or friend, both for support and because they may have noticed patterns you have not

Thinking about your goals also helps. Whether it is following family conversations, hearing at work, or enjoying music again, sharing what matters to you lets the audiologist tailor their advice.

When should you see a GP first?

Some symptoms are worth having a doctor look at promptly. See your GP or seek timely care if you have a sudden drop in hearing, hearing loss in only one ear, ear pain, discharge, or dizziness. These can have specific causes that may benefit from early attention. Earwax build-up is also common and can affect hearing; an audiologist or GP can check whether that is a factor.

What happens after the assessment?

Once your hearing has been measured, the audiologist will explain your results in plain language and discuss options suited to your situation. For some people that means communication strategies, for others hearing aids may be helpful, and in certain cases a referral to a doctor or specialist is the right next step. There is no single answer, and the plan should reflect your needs and preferences.

You are under no obligation to act on everything at once. Many people find it reassuring simply to have a clear baseline, even if they decide to monitor a mild change rather than do anything further for now. Having the measurement on record also makes it easier to see whether your hearing shifts in future.

It also helps to know that support may be available through schemes such as the Australian Government Hearing Services Program for eligible pensioners and veterans, and through private health insurance, WorkCover or the NDIS in relevant circumstances. Eligibility varies, so it is worth asking what applies to you rather than assuming you do or do not qualify. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.

If you have been wondering about your hearing, the simplest next step is to get it checked. At Hearing Help in Newport Marketplace on the Redcliffe Peninsula, you can book a hearing assessment without a referral, and the audiologist will guide you through your results and any options at your own pace.