Hearing test
There are several ways to get your hearing tested if your hearing is getting gradually worse.
A hearing test checks how well you can hear. It can help find hearing loss early, so you can get the right advice, treatment or support.
Speak to your GP practice first if:
- you have hearing loss with other symptoms, such as earache or discharge from the ear
- you have sudden hearing loss in one ear
- you are worried about your child’s hearing
These symptoms could be caused by something treatable, such as earwax build-up or an ear infection, but they should be checked.
How to get an NHS hearing test
You can get a free hearing test on the NHS. Your GP practice may refer you to a hearing specialist, called an audiologist, who can do the test.
It can take a few weeks to see a specialist. It may be quicker to get a hearing test somewhere else, such as a large pharmacy or optician, although you may need to pay for this.
Read NHS 111 Wales hearing test informationOther ways to check your hearing
You can use the RNID online hearing check to find out whether you may need a face-to-face hearing test. This is not a full hearing test, but it can help you decide what to do next.
Some pharmacies and opticians also offer hearing tests. The test may be free, but you will usually need to pay for any treatment or hearing aids if they are not provided through the NHS.
Use the RNID online hearing checkWhat happens during a hearing test?
You may have a few different tests during your appointment. These help check whether you have hearing loss and what may be causing it.
| Test | What happens |
|---|---|
| Pure tone audiometry | You listen to different sounds through headphones and press a button or raise your hand each time you hear something. |
| Speech perception test | This is similar to pure tone audiometry, but you listen to speech rather than sounds. |
| Tympanometry | A small device is placed in your ear to check for fluid behind your eardrum. |
You usually get the results at the end of the appointment. The hearing specialist will explain what the results mean and whether you need more tests or support.
Hearing tests for babies and children
Newborn hearing tests and some hearing tests for children are different from adult hearing tests.
Newborn Hearing Screening Wales is run by Public Health Wales and provides information for parents, professionals and the public.
If you are worried about your child’s hearing, speak to your GP practice, health visitor or school nurse.
Visit Newborn Hearing Screening Wales Read NHS 111 Wales hearing and vision tests for childrenNHS 111 Wales related information
These NHS 111 Wales pages may also be useful:
Other hearing support organisations
These organisations may also provide useful information and support: