Hearing Impairment

Hearing loss sometimes gets better on its own, or may be treated with medicine or a simple procedure. For example, earwax can be sucked out, or softened with eardrops.

But other types – such as gradual hearing loss, which often happens as you get older – may be permanent. In these cases, treatment can help make the most of the remaining hearing. This may involve using:

• Hearing aids – several different types are available on the NHS or privately

• Implants – devices that are attached to your skull or placed deep inside your ear, if hearing aids aren’t suitable

• Different ways of communicating – such as sign language/Makaton or lip reading – See our section detailed “SALT – Speech and Language Team”