Do I need a hearing aid?

[terry724]

Do i need a hearing aid and if so what kind should i have. My hearing is getting worse as time marches on i have had tests done but they say i am alright, I cannot hear the birds sing or the phone ring, I have a ringing in my ears and find subtitles a boon to T V viewing, should I ask for a retesting of my hearing

[MickeyJoints]

Hi, it sounds like you would benefit from hearing aids - they have helped me a lot.

Are you in the UK? I did hear recently that some NHS regions/trusts were stopping the supply of aids where there was small hearing loss. I would not have got them if I'd presented myself now to those trusts.

Certainly start with a request for a reassessment of your hearing loss. I would suggest that you don't hold back on the affect it's having on your life. That's not to say to lie, by the way, just to make sure they appreciate the impact it's having on you.

Sadly the tinnitus is likely to get worse, as it increases as your hearing loss accelerates for most people.

There is the option of private purchase of hearing aids too. You could see what sevices are offered locally - some major high street shops offer hearing tests so you could approach them to see what they could do and at what cost.

Good luck!

[Hidden]

Hi I certainly agree with Mickyjoints, I have had aids for 4 years now, and I suffer with tinnitus. This been for the last 16years. I cannot really say it had got worse, but in saying that, it never goes away. My aids do help,and it is only at night going to sleep when it is at its worse. As for you not hearing the phone or birds singing is terrible! You certainly do need aids in my opinion. My hearing is OK on a one on one conversation but when in a crowded room becomes more difficult. In my work as a RN I thought it was imperative I could hear!!! Hence enquiring about aids. They did cost me 6,000 dollars here in New Zealand. Good luck Lyn

[X01WOOG]

Get a hearing test done by another person.