About the topic
Hearing changes may make conversation tiring, especially in noisy places, or lead you to turn up the television. Some causes are treatable, while others need longer-term support. Do not assume reduced hearing is simply ageing or earwax without an assessment.
Practical care & comfort
- Reduce background noise and face the person speaking to you.
- Keep headphone volume comfortable and use protection around loud noise.
- Avoid cotton buds, fingers or other objects inside the ear canal.
Symptoms & signs
- Difficulty following conversations, especially with background noise.
- Needing people to repeat themselves or the TV volume turned up.
- Listening fatigue, or a new change in hearing in one or both ears.
When to speak with a clinician: Arrange a hearing assessment if you notice gradual changes or hearing has not recovered after treatment for wax or infection. Tell the clinician how it affects daily conversations.
Food & nutrition
Food choices support general health; they do not restore hearing or replace a hearing assessment. These food suggestions support general health; no special exclusion diet is suggested.
Foods & nutrition to follow
- Varied fruit and vegetables.
- Wholegrains, pulses and other protein foods.
Foods to limit or avoid
- Limit sugary drinks.
- Keep salty, fatty snacks occasional.
About this guide
General adult health information; it does not diagnose your symptoms or replace individual medical advice. Follow any plan your treating team has given you.
Further reading from the clinical sources used for this guide: