Hearing loss doesn’t always happen suddenly. For many people, it creeps in slowly, so gradually that they don’t even realise how much they’ve been missing.
You might find yourself turning up the TV volume, asking people to repeat themselves, or avoiding noisy environments altogether. These may seem like small annoyances, but they could be early signs of hearing loss.
At Provide Wellbeing, we offer private, expert-led hearing assessments in Colchester to help you understand what’s going on and what you can do next.
What Are the Signs of Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss affects people of all ages, but it’s especially common as we grow older. The early signs are often subtle and easy to dismiss, which means many people delay getting the help they need.
Here are some of the most common symptoms:
- You struggle to follow conversations in noisy places like restaurants or group settings.
- You often ask people to repeat themselves or feel like others are mumbling.
- You turn up the radio or TV louder than others prefer.
- You find phone conversations difficult to hear clearly.
- You feel tired or stressed after trying to listen for long periods.
- You notice a constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound (this could be tinnitus).
- Friends or family members have commented on your hearing.
If any of these feel familiar, it’s a good idea to get your hearing checked.
Why Hearing Loss Matters
Hearing is more than just sound. It’s about staying connected, with conversations, music, laughter, and the world around you. Untreated hearing loss can impact:
- Mental wellbeing – contributing to loneliness, anxiety, and even depression
- Cognitive health – studies link untreated hearing loss to faster cognitive decline
- Relationships – missed words and misunderstandings can cause frustration or withdrawal
- Safety – difficulty hearing alarms, doorbells, or approaching vehicles
Early diagnosis means you can take action, maintain your quality of life, and prevent things from getting worse.
What Causes Hearing Loss?
There are many potential causes, including:
- Age-related hearing loss (Presbycusis) – natural wear-and-tear over time
- Noise-induced hearing loss – from concerts, machinery, or prolonged loud environments
- Earwax blockages – a reversible cause often fixed by microsuction
- Ear infections – especially if left untreated
- Genetic or medical conditions – such as otosclerosis or Ménière’s disease
- Ototoxic medications – including some antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs
- Injury or trauma – such as a sudden loud noise or head injury
A professional hearing assessment will help pinpoint the cause and guide your next steps.
What Happens in a Hearing Test?
At Provide Wellbeing, our private hearing assessments are carried out by experienced audiology clinicians in our Colchester clinic.
The process is simple, comfortable, and typically takes under an hour. It includes:
- Discussion of your symptoms and lifestyle
- Ear examination to check for wax, infection, or other issues
- Hearing test (audiometry) – where you’ll listen to sounds and speech in a soundproof booth
- Explanation of results – so you fully understand your hearing profile
- Personalised recommendations – whether that’s monitoring, earwax removal, hearing aids, or ENT referral
No GP referral is needed, and appointments are often available within a few days.
Why Choose Private Hearing Care?
While NHS services are available, they often come with long wait times. Our private audiology service is:
- Fast – no waiting months for appointments
- Expert-led – you’ll see skilled, caring professionals
- Personalised – tailored advice, not a one-size-fits-all approach
- Local – based at our Colchester clinic with free parking and a calm, welcoming environment
Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears) is often linked to hearing loss. If you’ve been experiencing these sounds, we’ll check for both hearing loss and any underlying causes, including wax build-up.
We also offer microsuction earwax removal and custom ear protection to support your hearing health long-term.
When to Get Checked
If you’ve noticed any changes in your hearing, or simply want peace of mind, book a private hearing assessment today. Early action can make all the difference.
Book online now or speak to our friendly team.
Based in Colchester | No referral needed | CQC-rated Outstanding
