FAQs
Yes, excessive earwax can significantly impact your hearing. When earwax builds up and blocks the ear canal, it can cause:
- A sensation of fullness in the ear
- Muffled or reduced hearing
- Temporary hearing loss
In some cases, earwax build-up may also lead to discomfort or tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Fortunately, professional earwax removal can quickly restore clear hearing and alleviate these symptoms. If you suspect earwax is affecting your hearing, book an appointment with our team for safe and effective removal.
Ear drops can be effective in softening earwax and may assist in its natural removal for mild cases. However, if the blockage is persistent, causes discomfort, or affects your hearing, professional removal by a trained clinician is often necessary.
At Dove Hearing Centres, our expert team provides safe and effective earwax removal services, ensuring your ears are clear and healthy without the risk of damage. If ear drops haven’t resolved the issue, we’re here to help.
Microsuction is a highly effective and safe method for removing earwax. It involves the use of a specialised gentle suction device to carefully remove excess wax from the ear canal. Unlike other methods, such as syringing, microsuction does not involve water, making it a cleaner and more precise option.
This procedure is carried out by trained professionals, ensuring a comfortable and efficient experience. Microsuction is suitable for most people and is particularly effective for stubborn or impacted wax. If you’re experiencing blocked ears, our expert team can provide this service to help restore your hearing clarity.
Irrigation is a method of earwax removal that involves gently flushing warm water into the ear canal to help dislodge and remove built-up wax. This procedure is performed by trained professionals to ensure it is safe and effective.
While irrigation is suitable for many people, it is not recommended for individuals with a history of eardrum perforations, ear infections, or other specific ear conditions. If you’re unsure whether irrigation is right for you, our team can provide expert advice and alternative options, such as microsuction, to ensure the safest method for your ear health.
Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it hard to detect initially. In many cases, friends or family may notice changes before you do. Common signs that it’s time to book a hearing test include:
- Difficulty following conversations, especially in groups
- Frequently needing others to repeat themselves
- Struggling to hear clearly in noisy settings
- Experiencing ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus)
- Turning up the TV or radio volume higher than usual
If you recognise any of these symptoms, scheduling a professional hearing assessment can help identify any issues and offer the right solutions to suit your needs.
A hearing assessment at Dove Hearing Centres is a comprehensive and personalised process designed to evaluate your hearing health. Our experienced audiologists will:
- Discuss Your Hearing History: We’ll begin by asking about any challenges you’ve been experiencing, as well as your general health and lifestyle, to understand your unique needs.
- Conduct Hearing Tests: Using advanced equipment, we’ll perform a series of tests in a soundproof environment to accurately measure your hearing ability.
- Review the Results: Once the tests are complete, we’ll explain your results in detail, ensuring you fully understand your hearing profile.
- Recommend Solutions: If any issues are identified, we’ll guide you through the options available, which could include tailored hearing aids, earwax removal, or regular check-ups.
Our goal is to provide you with clear information and practical solutions to help you hear your best.
The frequency of visits to your audiologist depends on your individual hearing needs. Initially, you may need several appointments for hearing aid fittings, fine-tuning, and adjustments to ensure your devices are perfectly suited to you.
After this, we recommend scheduling annual check-ups to:
- Monitor any changes in your hearing ability
- Ensure your hearing aids are functioning optimally
- Address any concerns or questions you may have
Regular visits help maintain your hearing health and ensure you continue to get the most out of your hearing aids. If you notice any sudden changes in your hearing, we encourage you to book an appointment as soon as possible.
Yes, modern hearing aids are designed with user-friendliness in mind, featuring advanced technology that’s simple to operate. While there may be a brief adjustment period as you get used to wearing and using them, our audiologists are here to support you every step of the way.
During your fitting, we’ll provide clear guidance on:
- How to wear and adjust your hearing aids
- Managing settings for different environments
- Proper care and maintenance to keep them in top condition
With a little practice and the right support, you’ll find that hearing aids can quickly become an effortless part of your daily routine, helping you reconnect with the sounds that matter most.
Hearing loss can gradually progress over time, especially if left unaddressed. However, regular hearing tests and timely interventions, such as wearing hearing aids, can significantly help manage and slow the impact of hearing loss.
By addressing hearing issues early, you can:
- Stay connected to the world around you
- Reduce the strain on your ears and brain
- Prevent potential complications associated with untreated hearing loss
Your audiologist will work with you to monitor your hearing health and recommend personalised strategies to maintain it. Regular check-ups and the proper use of hearing aids can make a big difference in preserving your quality of life.
Most hearing aids are not fully waterproof, but many modern devices are water-resistant. This means they can withstand light moisture, such as sweat or a small amount of rain, but they should not be submerged in water or exposed to heavy moisture.
To protect your hearing aids:
- Avoid wearing them while swimming, showering, or during activities involving water.
- Check the water resistance rating of your specific model—your audiologist can help clarify this.
If water exposure is a concern, your audiologist can recommend options designed to offer enhanced protection, ensuring your devices meet your lifestyle needs. Proper care and maintenance will also help keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
On some occasions, hearing aid trials can be requested to ensure they’re the right fit for your lifestyle and hearing needs. During a trial period, you may have the opportunity to:
- Test their comfort and performance in different environments
- Experience how improved hearing enhances your daily activities
- Provide feedback to your audiologist for any necessary adjustments
Availability of hearing aid trials depends on individual circumstances, so we recommend discussing this option with your audiologist. Our aim is to help you make a confident and informed decision about your hearing care.