What is a hearing check?

A hearing check is a simple, painless assessment that helps you understand how well you hear everyday sounds and speech. It can also show whether there may be a problem with your ear health, such as wax build-up, infection, age-related hearing changes, or hearing loss caused by noise.

Many people wait until hearing becomes a real problem before asking for help. But hearing changes can happen slowly, so a check can be useful even if you are only starting to notice small signs, such as turning the television up, missing parts of conversations, or finding it harder to hear in busy places.

How often should we have one?

There is no single rule for everyone. As a guide, adults with no hearing concerns may want a hearing check every few years, especially from mid-life onwards. People over 60, people who already wear hearing aids, and people who work around loud noise may benefit from more regular checks.

You should arrange a check sooner if you notice a change in your hearing, ringing or buzzing in the ears, blocked ears, dizziness, ear pain, or if family and friends are telling you that you are missing what they say.

At what age should a hearing test take place?

Newborn babies are offered hearing screening in the UK, and children may have hearing checks if there are concerns about speech, learning, ear infections, or listening at school. Adults can have a hearing test at any age if they are worried about their hearing.

For adults, it is sensible to think about hearing in the same way as eyesight or dental health. You do not need to wait until hearing loss is severe. A first adult hearing check can give you a useful baseline, and later tests can show whether anything has changed.

Does a hearing check include wax removal?

Not always. A hearing check usually includes a look inside the ear to see whether wax, infection, or another ear health issue may be affecting the result. If there is too much wax, the test may need to be delayed until the wax has been safely removed.

Some clinics offer ear wax removal as a separate service, often using microsuction or another professional method. Other clinics may refer you elsewhere. It is best to check before booking, especially if your ears often feel blocked or you have been told you have wax build-up.

Who is qualified to provide a hearing test?

A hearing test should be carried out by someone with the right training and experience in hearing care. In the UK, a Hearing Aid Dispenser is a regulated professional role, and people using this protected title must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, known as the HCPC.

You may also see the term audiologist. Audiologists work in different settings, including the NHS, private clinics, hospitals, and community services. When choosing a provider, it is reasonable to ask about their qualifications, professional registration, experience, and what type of hearing test they provide.

Is a hearing test available on the NHS?

Yes. Hearing tests and treatment can be available through the NHS. You can speak to your GP, who may refer you to an NHS audiology service. NHS services can assess hearing, explain the results, and provide hearing aids if they are suitable.

Private hearing checks are also widely available, often through local hearing clinics, pharmacies, opticians, and independent audiology providers. Some offer a free initial screening, while a full diagnostic appointment may have a charge.

What is the usual charge?

Costs vary depending on the clinic and the type of appointment. In the UK, a basic hearing screen may be free or low cost, while a full private hearing assessment is often charged separately. Ear wax removal is usually a separate service and may also have its own fee.

Before booking, ask what is included: the ear health check, the hearing test, an explanation of the results, a written report, wax removal if needed, and any follow-up advice. A clear price list helps you compare services fairly.

When should I seek help quickly?

Sudden hearing loss, hearing that gets worse quickly, ear pain, discharge from the ear, dizziness, or hearing loss with other new symptoms should be checked urgently. If you are unsure what to do, contact your GP, NHS 111, or an appropriate urgent care service.