What it is
It is not usually painful, but hearing loss can affect speech, learning and behaviour if it lasts a long time.
If it does not clear, hearing aids or small tubes in the eardrum (grommets) can help.
Common signs
- Dulled hearing, such as turning the TV up or not responding
- Speaking loudly
- Earache, sometimes
- Problems with balance or clumsiness
- Speech or attention difficulties
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the ears
- Hearing tests
- Tympanometry (a test of how the eardrum moves)
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Hearing test results over time
- ENT letters
- Notes on grommets or hearing aids
Questions to ask your doctor
- Does my child need a hearing test?
- Should we wait or treat it?
- Could it affect speech or school?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Earache with high fever, swelling behind the ear or a stiff neck: get urgent medical help
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.