Muted Feelings – Hearing tests bottom of the list for people in Wales

This World Hearing Day (Friday 3 March), research from Specsavers found almost three quarters (74%) have never gone for a routine hearing test – this is despite 72% having experienced symptoms, which could indicate hearing difficulties.

Such symptoms include ringing in the ears (26%), mishearing what people nearby are saying (32%), asking people to repeat themselves on a regular basis (29%), and finding it hard to keep up with a conversation (19%). 

The research commissioned by Specsavers, which provides primary hearing care across the UK, showed that most respondents – 83% – would seek treatment within a few weeks or sooner for ailments such as flu-like symptoms, aches and pains, lumps or a rash. Compared to just 54% who would seek treatment in the same amount of time, when it came to their hearing.

While more than half (55%) of all adults worry about losing their hearing, almost a third (32%) admitted they would pretend it’s completely normal if they were to experience problems. 

The World Health Organisation noted that 60% of hearing problems can be addressed through primary care. So, this World Hearing Day, Specsavers is rallying the nation to prioritise their hearing health and to take action if they have any concerns.

GP and TV Doctor, Dr Zoe Williams has partnered with Specsavers to remind individuals of the role primary care plays when it comes to ear health.

“The appearance of a red rash, lumps, bumps, or blurred vision are all aliments where we’d seek immediate tests and medical advice. However, people who have hearing loss don’t always seek support straight away, and unfortunately, the longer you leave hearing issues the worse they can become.

“Hearing tests are an essential part of our overall health maintenance, and hearing health is integral within primary care. Luckily, audiologists form part of this primary care setting and can address a range of hearing problems you may be experiencing quickly and easily.”

Of the reasons for individuals not having a hearing test, 43% thought their symptoms of hearing loss weren’t a problem they needed to worry about, 11% thought they were overreacting and 4% thought they were too young to experience them.

Nearly 3 in 10 (28%) were unaware that the longer they waited to get their hearing problem sorted, the worse their hearing would get. This is despite a whopping 77% of Welsh people admitting they would book a hearing test sooner if they knew they could be at risk of losing their hearing.

Commenting on the findings, Specsavers’ Swansea audiology director,  Amy Davies, said: “Hearing loss affects millions of people in the UK, and we know that many people struggle for years before they take any action. But there’s no need to put it off any longer, particularly with the expert help and support that’s available on the high street.’

“It is important to get your hearing checked if you notice any changes in your hearing, regardless of your age – most of the time hearing loss happens gradually, making it harder to notice if you’re not hearing as well as you used to.  It’s also important to look after and protect your hearing.’

“The best thing to do is to make sure that you never listen to your music above 60% volume, give your ears regular breaks, and when you know you’re going to be surrounded by loud noise make sure to take hearing protection with you. Prevention is always best, so if you do notice any changes in your hearing, make sure you seek expert help as soon as possible.”