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The role that hearing aids play when it comes to managing hearing loss can’t be disputed. Hearing loss is something that cannot be reversed, and if left untreated it can worsen over time. Hearing aids can transform an individual’s ability to hear and ultimately improve their quality of life.

However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, there are so many types of hearing aids that the choice can be a little overwhelming for someone seeking advice. On top of that, there are multiple hearing aid providers available. Do you seek help from the NHS, a high street chain, or a private independent audiologist?

We understand that there can often be a lot of confusion around the options available to you, so hopefully this article will give you a clear understanding of the difference between the NHS and private hearing aids and the services offered across the sector.

Understanding NHS hearing aids

NHS hearing aids are provided free of charge through the UK’s healthcare system, provided the individual meets the eligibility criteria. This is determined based on factors such as the severity of hearing loss, medical history and impact on quality of life.

Typically, individuals need to be referred to an NHS audiologist by their GP or another healthcare professional before undergoing a series of tests and assessments to determine their eligibility.

What hearing aids are available on the NHS

NHS hearing aids can cater to different levels of hearing loss from mild to severe, but are typically always behind-the-ear (BTE) models with standard functionality designed to provide basic amplification. For some individuals, or depending on regions or trusts, smaller in-the-ear (ITE) options may be available.

As standard, NHS hearing aids are digital models that can be adjusted to suit an individual’s hearing needs but the range of available models and technology levels is usually quite limited. They tend to be older, more basic models that don’t offer the latest advancements in technology with limited colour options and you may not get a choice in the type of hearing aid.

Pros and cons of NHS hearing aids

Pros:

• Cost-effective: NHS hearing aids are free if you’re eligible for them, making them a budget-friendly option.
• Widely available: The national healthcare system is available to people who are ordinarily resident in the UK, making it accessible to a large percentage of the population.

Cons:

• Limited choice: The NHS doesn’t offer a large range of manufacturers or models and the options for customisation are restricted.
• Longer waiting times: Individuals require a referral to undergo an NHS hearing test and due to a lack of resources, the waiting time for these appointments, and subsequent follow-up appointments for adjustments, can be significantly long.
• Older technology: NHS hearing aids typically don’t offer the latest technology which can impact performance and ultimately the benefits that an individual can gain from hearing aids.
• Eligibility criteria: This can be stringent, meaning that some people with mild to moderate hearing loss may not qualify for NHS hearing aids.

Understanding private hearing aids

Private hearing aids are offered by independent audiology clinics, as well as some larger high street chains. Unlike the NHS, these are paid for by the individual but they don’t require a referral from a GP or any other medical professional.

Anyone can book an appointment directly with a private audiologist for a hearing consultation to assess their hearing loss and discuss the hearing aid options available to them.

Hearing aids offered by private audiologists

Independent audiology providers like ourselves at Harley Street Hearing have access to an extensive range of hearing aids from every manufacturer. That’s what makes us independent, as we’re not tied to one manufacturer we can offer completely unbiased advice suggesting the hearing aids that are right for your personal requirements, high street chains do not have this flexibility.

Working directly with leading manufacturers such as Oticon, Phonak, Starkey, Widex and many more, we have direct access to the most advanced technology on the market, quite often before anyone else as manufacturers bring their products to us to trial and review.

This technology ranges from features such as advanced connectivity options, noise reduction and powerful sensors that can adapt to your hearing needs when your listening environment changes.

Along with advanced technology, there are many different designs, styles and colour options available when buying privately. This includes completely discreet invisible hearing aids that are worlds apart from the standard Behind-The-Ear models offered by the NHS.

For private patients, this means that their hearing aid choices can be truly personalised depending on the level of technology they want, their unique hearing challenges and aesthetic preferences.

Pros and cons of private hearing aids

Pros:

• Advanced technology: Access to the latest hearing technology which is continually evolving, to ensure your hearing aids are helping you to hear optimally every day. Typically four technology generations ahead of NHS options.
• Wide range of options: Greater control over the style of hearing aid chosen, with the ability to customise to your preferences.
• Personalised service: Comprehensive assessments, fitting and ongoing support to enhance your journey to better hearing. At Harley Street Hearing once you become one of our valued patients, any subsequent adjustments or hearing aftercare is complimentary for life.

Cons:

• Higher initial cost: Private hearing aids come with a premium price which varies depending on the level of technology you require, however, payment plans are available should you wish to help spread the cost. Harley Street Hearing also offers a 30-day trial, so you can try before you buy.

Are private hearing aids better than NHS?

Whether private hearing aids are better than NHS hearing aids can be subjective and depends on your individual preferences and circumstances.

However, where NHS hearing aids are free they are typically a one-size-fits-all solution with a lower technical specification, which doesn’t work for everyone. For example, whilst they may be suitable for one-on-one listening environments, they generally don’t perform as well in noisy group settings. If you’re an individual with an active or particularly social lifestyle, they may not provide the hearing clarity you need.

Beyond the technology available, it’s understandable that some individuals can be apprehensive about wearing hearing aids due to the stigma that may be attached to them. This is where private hearing aids can be a far superior option as designs are much more sleek, modern and discreet or completely invisible where required.

Whilst it’s crucial not to overlook the benefits that the NHS provides, it’s equally as important to take your preferences into account. Ultimately, a hearing aid is something that you’ll need to wear day in and day out, so being completely comfortable with the device and ensuring that it serves your hearing needs is essential.

Private hearing services vs NHS

There are clear differences between the hearing aids offered by the NHS and private audiologists, but what about the services that come with them?

Since hearing aids are a lifelong commitment, it’s important to take into account the standard of service you’ll receive and the availability of support when you require it. Let’s compare the difference between the hearing services within the NHS and those offered by private audiologists.

NHS hearing services

• Limited appointment times: Due to high demand and the unfortunate lack of resources within the NHS, appointments are usually constrained to a certain time. This means that appointments can be rushed, and patients may not receive an in-depth, thorough hearing assessment.
• Standardised care: NHS audiology services operate with a standardised framework to provide consistent care to everyone, meaning that hearing services aren’t tailored to each individual’s specific needs.
• Basic aftercare: This will typically cover routine maintenance and repairs of NHS-provided hearing aids, but aftercare will be more generalised in comparison to private clinics.

Private audiology services

• Comprehensive assessments: Appointment times aren’t limited and assessments aren’t rushed, meaning private audiologists can conduct thorough, in-depth consultations. They take the time to provide an accurate diagnosis whilst also understanding an individual’s challenges, lifestyle and preferences. At Harley Street Hearing a typical hearing consultation is 90 minutes.
• Personalised attention: Private audiologists prioritise personalised services, offering individualised advice and support to each patient in order to deliver tailored solutions.
• Appointment availability: Hearing consultations at a private clinic are more readily available without lengthy waiting times, and are typically more flexible to accommodate busy schedules, often available within 24 hours.
• Ongoing aftercare: Private clinics prioritise aftercare to ensure their patients maximise the benefits of their hearing aids and can promptly address any concerns or challenges that may arise in the future.

All of the above are important considerations when choosing a hearing aid provider. Your hearing abilities and needs can change over time, so your hearing aid will need adjustments or upgrades to cater to your changing needs.

Private hearing aids in London

At Harley Street Hearing, we believe that treating hearing loss is far more than simply prescribing a hearing aid. Your hearing journey is all about the entire patient experience, from your initial consultation to your ongoing support and aftercare.

All of our hearing aid patients are patients for life. We offer unrivalled aftercare with complimentary annual check-ups and ear wax removal, to ensure that our patients get the most out of their hearing aids with the support they need from our team of highly trained clinical audiologists.

Whether you think you’re experiencing hearing loss and need a hearing aid, or you’re an existing hearing aid user looking for an upgrade, or requiring a repair, get in touch with us. We have various hearing clinics in London and a team of experts ready to listen to your concerns and provide you with the treatment you deserve.

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Noise-induced hearing loss through music is prevalent, as highlighted by this recent article on famous musicians with hearing loss.

The Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme aims to support and educate musicians nationwide, safeguarding their hearing health. Founded by Musicians’ Hearing Services, in collaboration with Help Musicians UK (HMUK), the Musicians’ Union (MU), and the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM), it’s committed to making a difference in the lives of musicians everywhere.

It’s been eight years since the launch of the scheme, and so I thought now was a good time to reflect on some of the remarkable work we’ve done so far.

What we’ve achieved so far

In just eight years, the scheme has helped over 18,500 musicians across the UK, from guitarists and drummers to DJs and singers.

Here’s an insight into what the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme offers:

Comprehensive hearing assessments tailored specifically for musicians

Conducted by our expert audiologists at Harley Street Hearing and Musicians Hearing Services, these assessments are designed to detect early signs of hearing damage and provide personalised recommendations for protection and preservation.

Heavily subsidised hearing protection

The scheme is committed to ensuring that cost isn’t a barrier to safeguarding the hearing of musicians, recognising the financial restraints they may face. Through our partnership with industry-leading manufacturers, we offer top-quality earplugs and custom-made ear moulds at accessible rates, empowering musicians to protect their most precious asset: their hearing.

Education & raising awareness

Education lies at the core of our initiative. We are dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of noise-induced hearing loss and empowering musicians with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their hearing health. Workshops, seminars, and online resources serve as invaluable tools in this endeavour, equipping musicians with practical strategies for mitigating risk and promoting long-term auditory wellness.

The importance of the scheme

The dangers of excessive noise exposure have been highlighted in recent news articles where renowned musicians such as Dave Grohl have shared their battles with hearing loss and tinnitus, serving as a reminder that no musicians are exempt from poor hearing health.

Reflecting on our achievements so far, we find inspiration in the profound impact of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme. Behind the statistics, we have helped to safeguard the careers of countless numbers of musicians, preserving their passions and securing their futures. We couldn’t have done this without the unwavering dedication of our team and the support of our partners.

Thank you for your support

Our journey continues, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to championing the hearing health of musicians nationwide. Together, we can ensure that future generations of musicians continue to share their gifts with the world, unencumbered by the looming threat of hearing loss.

In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme. Your support, dedication, and advocacy are the driving forces behind our mission, and it is through our collective efforts we will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of musicians everywhere.

Matthew Allsop, Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services

Enjoy this article? You might be interested in some of our others:

• Why musicians should protect their hearing
• Musicians’ Union – Hyperacusis Case Study
• The interview all musicians should see

Welcome to the latest edition of Hearsay, your gateway to the latest advancements in hearing technology and insightful articles. At Harley Street Hearing, we’re dedicated to keeping all of our hearing aid patients informed on news on everything to do with hearing and our hearing clinics. In this edition, we have an array of exciting updates and resources tailored just for you. Including:

• State-of-the-Art Hearing Technology
• Rail User Discounts
• Our very own Theatre Hearing Guide
• Testimonial from Musician Alison Beck – sharing her hearing journey to overcome the taboo of hearing loss in the music industry.
• Hearing Health Seminars – discover how our seminars and workshops can empower you and your team with valuable knowledge on protecting and managing sound levels and promoting hearing health in your organisation.

To see the full issue click below

Don’t hesitate to contact us, we’ll be delighted to discuss any issues with you.

If you’ve found this interesting please see some of our other blogs click here.

Empowering Young Musicians: A Journey through Hearing Health

Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services were approached by the National Youth Orchestra for a Hearing Health Seminar. Led by Clinical Lead Fiona Butterworth the seminar took place during the NYO’s Spring residency at Uppingham School in Rutland, ahead of their much-anticipated performance at the Royal Festival Hall.

In a room filled with approximately 150 young musicians, aged between 13 and 18, Butterworth engaged the audience in a discussion that shed light on the nuances of hearing health. The atmosphere buzzed with curiosity as the musicians eagerly absorbed insights into hearing protection and dispelled common misconceptions.

Quotes from members of the NYO reflect the impact of the session:

• “It was really interesting to hear about the different possibilities for hearing protection and some misconceptions about why hearing is damaged.”
• “It was really useful and clarified information, and also made me feel reassured that it’s okay to reach out for help, so thank you.”
• “It was extremely helpful! I feel I have been a bit careless when it comes to hearing protection, and considering the likelihood of me continuing music, it is useful to know more about how I can protect my hearing in the long term! Many thanks for the talk!”
• “It really makes you think more about how we hear and how to maintain the quality of hearing when it’s something that we often take for granted, especially as musicians.”
• “Protect your ears so you can keep doing what you love!”
• “Hearing protection is an important part of life as a musician, and is not something that should be glossed over.”
• “This was a great session!!! Very informative and clear, and showed me different things that I never realised about hearing or knew a little about, but now understand much better!”

Confidence levels regarding managing hearing health revealed a significant shift due to the contents of the seminar. At the beginning of the session, the average response to the question “how confident do you feel about managing your hearing health” was 2.8 out of 5, with 70% of responses ranging from 1 to 3 out of 5. By the end, the average response soared to 4.3 out of 5, with an overwhelming 96% of responses falling within the 4 to 5 out of 5 range.

This transformative experience underscores the importance of education and awareness in safeguarding the hearing health of young musicians. By equipping them with knowledge and resources, we empower them to cherish their passion for music while prioritising their well-being. As the NYO members attest, it’s not just about protecting our ears—it’s about preserving the harmony of our musical journey for years to come. If your organisation would be interested in learning more about our Hearing Health Seminars don’t hesitate to contact us.

If you’ve found this interesting try some of our other articles:

Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme 8 Years Strong

Protecting Your Ears in 2024

Muisician’s Union Hyperacusis Case Study

Protect Your Ears, Skydivers: A Call to Action from Matthew Allsop

Matthew Allsop, Partner of Harley Street Hearing, and a passionate advocate for audiology, is thrilled to see his #hearforyears campaign gaining momentum. This initiative aims to safeguard skydivers from noise-induced hearing loss, a risk that currently lacks sufficient awareness in the skydiving community.

A few months ago, Allsop began his crusade to enlighten skydivers about the dangerously high noise levels they encounter during their thrilling descents. The #hearforyears campaign, born out of a brainstorming session with Kevin Dynan, the Safety and Training Officer for British Skydiving, targets skydivers first, with plans to gradually reach higher authorities.

This month, Allsop’s first awareness-raising attempt was featured in the British Skydiving publication, reaching 6,600 UK-based skydivers and 60,000 students.  You can read the full article here.

Join the campaign here #hearforyears and contact us for your own custom made hearing protection.

Enjoy this article? You might be interested in some of our others:

• Skydiving and Hearing Loss
• Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline
• What is Tinnitus

Have you ever wondered if having a hearing loss means you’ll suffer from dementia? And can hearing aids help to prevent it?

Today’s blog is a deep dive into a topic that’s both concerning and intriguing: the connection between hearing health and cognitive wellness. And let me start off by saying, I’m no expert in dementia, but I’m passionate about sharing evidence-based information in a way that’s easy to understand.

Alzheimer’s fake news

Recently, a patient came to my clinic after a distressing experience at a national chain in the UK. They’d been told that if they didn’t wear hearing aids, they would, in no uncertain terms, develop Alzheimer’s.

This is a claim that’s not only misleading but downright infuriating. In my opinion, hearing loss alone and the disability that people experience due to having a hearing loss is a big enough reason to warrant wearing hearing aids.

So, let’s set the record straight.

What the evidence says on hearing loss and cognitive decline

There is growing evidence in the media linking dementia and hearing loss, which is becoming harder and harder to ignore, that is, if it’s interpreted correctly. Let’s take a look at some actual evidence:

• In 2011, Dr. Frank Lin of Johns Hopkins concluded that a mild hearing loss will potentially double the risk for cognitive decline, a moderate hearing loss will triple the risk, and a severe hearing loss will quintuple your risk.
• A huge 25-year study involving almost 4,000 people with hearing loss by Dr. Hélèna Amieva and her colleagues in France concluded that there is a strong link between hearing status and the risk of disability, dementia, and depression.
• More recently, in The Lancet in 2020, it was indicated that hearing loss is the number one modifiable factor for preventing dementia for people in their mid to later life.

These figures are alarming, but it doesn’t mean hearing loss guarantees dementia.

Globally, around 55 million people suffer from some form of dementia. However, while we all lose some degree of brain processing power as we age, it’s relatively rare or unlikely that you’ll experience dementia or Alzheimer’s, with only around 2% of the population between the ages of 65 to 69 actually suffering from dementia. This figure does increase to about 33% by the age of 90.

So, while cognitive decline is a natural part of ageing, it doesn’t have to lead to dementia.

How hearing aids can help with dementia prevention

There is a lot of time, energy, and resources being poured into this subject, with evidence continuing to grow around how you can improve your chances of keeping your brain sharp throughout your entire lifetime. And guess what? Maintaining good hearing health is one of them.

HearingTracker recently recorded an interview with four experts on cognitive decline, dementia, and hearing loss. Two of the researchers, Dr. Victoria Sanchez and Dr. Julia Sarant, are currently working on some pretty groundbreaking studies revolving around how hearing aids can improve your chances of staving off the effects of cognitive decline as you get older.

The first study, ACHIEVE (Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders), found that using professionally fit hearing aids cut in half the rate of cognitive decline for the less healthy group. For both groups, hearing intervention was found to improve communication, social functioning, and to reduce loneliness, which other studies have shown are all factors that have been tied to cognitive status.

The second study, ENHANCE (Evaluation of Hearing Aids and Cognitive Effects), supports those from the ACHIEVE study and suggests that hearing aids may be able to forestall cognitive decline by as much as 3 years.

Both of these studies are ongoing, meaning that in reality, 3 years isn’t much time to study an ageing and mental health status, and there’s a lot more research to be done and questions that need to be answered.

Why you should prioritise hearing health

Moreover, hearing intervention improves communication, social functioning, and reduces loneliness—all factors tied to cognitive health. So, hearing aids aren’t just about improving hearing; they’re about preserving cognitive wellness.

However, addressing hearing loss isn’t solely the responsibility of audiologists. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in identifying hearing issues and referring patients for appropriate care. It’s a two-way street that requires collaboration and awareness.

Now, in the age of advanced technology and heightened awareness, there’s no excuse for neglecting hearing health. Modern hearing aids offer incredible benefits, from improved functionality to sleek designs. And with ongoing research and discussions, the stigma surrounding hearing loss is gradually eroding.

So, if you’ve noticed changes in your hearing or cognitive abilities, don’t wait—seek help. And remember, taking care of your hearing isn’t just about hearing better; it’s about safeguarding your cognitive wellness.

Harley Street Hearing offers professional hearing tests that can effectively diagnose hearing loss, and our clinical audiologists can devise suitable treatment solutions such as hearing aids to prevent further decline in your hearing abilities.

To learn more about the latest advancements in hearing aids, be sure to check out our video on the best hearing aids of the year.

Until next time, take care of your ears and your brain!

Does Hearing Loss Cause Dementia? The Evidence Explained…

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing and the content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinions on all things to do with hearing health and hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can view his video on hearing loss & dementia below.

Enjoy this article? You might be interested in some of our others:

• What is hearing loss?
• Hearing wellness: Protecting your ears in 2024
• Best hearing aids available in the UK for 2024

If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that our hearing shouldn’t be taken for granted. Hearing is a vital sense that can decline as we age, and hearing loss is more common than you might think.

Taking proactive measures to protect yourself against hearing loss and seeking the right treatment if it does happen to you is the best solution, but with so many hearing care specialists offering different services where do you start?

There are various types of hearing professionals, from audiologists to otolaryngologists, and each of them plays a pivotal role in diagnosing and treating hearing-related issues. Some may use the term hearing doctor to refer to this group of professionals, but it is important to understand the difference between the specialists. The professional you should see will depend on your individual issues, so we’re here to help you understand the differences between them.

Whether you need treatment for hearing loss or specialist insight into an underlying audiological disorder, here’s an in-depth guide on which hearing professional to see and when.

The different types of hearing professionals

Audiologists

While audiologists are not doctors, they are highly trained professionals specialising in assessing, diagnosing, and managing disorders related to hearing and balance. They hold advanced qualifications in audiology and are licensed to perform a wide array of diagnostic tests to evaluate hearing loss.

These tests may include audiometry, tympanometry, and speech discrimination testing to evaluate an individual’s hearing abilities. From the results, an audiologist can conclude if the patient has a hearing loss and identify the type and severity of it, and also diagnose tinnitus where this may be the issue.

Beyond hearing tests, audiologists also provide rehabilitation services such as fitting hearing aids, assistive listening devices and tinnitus treatment therapies. Advising on hearing aid selection is a critical service delivered by audiologists, as these devices must be highly tailored to each individual’s hearing requirements in order to be effective. An audiologist will recommend the most suitable hearing aid depending on the hearing loss diagnosis, program the device to suit the hearing needs of the user and provide long-term aftercare to ensure that the hearing aid continues to serve the patient’s changing needs.

Some audiologists, like ourselves at Harley Street Hearing, may also specialise in ear wax removal, auditory processing disorder treatment, paediatric hearing services and balance disorders.

When you should see an audiologist

Audiologists cater to a variety of hearing needs, so you should seek their help if you are:

• Experiencing symptoms of hearing loss such as difficulty understanding speech, struggling with background noise or hearing the TV/radio at an acceptable volume level
• Considering hearing aids or other assistive listening devices, whether this is for the first time or a device upgrade, and for hearing aid repairs or adjustments
• Experiencing symptoms of tinnitus such as continuous buzzing, whistling or ringing in your ears
• Experiencing an ear wax blockage
• Seeking a hearing assessment or evaluation for balance disorders
• Looking to maintain your hearing health with a routine check-up

The importance of seeing an audiologist for ear wax removal

Ear wax removal is a service that should only be performed by qualified doctors and certified professionals including ENT consultants and audiologists who are registered with the HCPC or RCCP/AHCS with degree-level audiological qualifications.

However, it’s becoming increasingly common for inexperienced individuals to undertake brief ear wax removal training courses and begin providing it as a service. With a lack of regulation, underqualified ear wax removal providers can pose a serious health risk so we urge you to do your research.

Seeking a fully qualified clinical audiologist to perform ear wax removal is crucial to ensuring that it’s performed with the right equipment and in a completely safe way.

Harley Street Hearing offers both microsuction and ear irrigation wax removal methods, carried out with precision and accuracy using industry best practices.

Hearing aid dispensers

Hearing aid dispensers, or hearing instrument specialists, are professionals who are trained to conduct basic hearing tests and fit hearing aids. They typically work under the supervision of an audiologist or otolaryngologist and focus primarily on selecting and adjusting hearing aids to meet individual needs.

When you should see a hearing aid dispenser:

A hearing aid dispenser may be able to help if you are:

• Seeking assistance with selecting and fitting a hearing aid
• Requiring adjustments or maintenance for existing hearing aids

Otolaryngologists (ENTs)

Otolaryngologists are commonly known as ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors/consultants as they are specifically trained in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck.

They have extensive knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system and can treat a broad range of conditions including balance disorders and ear infections. They can perform complex head and neck surgeries and prescribe medications.

When you should see an Otolaryngologist

You should contact an Otolaryngologist if you:

• Have dizziness, vertigo or balance problems
• Have hearing loss that comes on suddenly
• Have chronic ear infections
• Require a cochlear implant for profound hearing loss
• Require surgical interventions for complex ear-related problems

ENTs often work with audiologists, and an audiologist may refer you to an ENT specialist if you are seeking rehabilitation for a balance disorder. Harley Street Hearing supports the ENT clinics at the HCA hospitals and Phoenix Hospital Group to provide our patients with the best care possible.

If you are experiencing any of the above problems, our specialised clinicians can provide comprehensive audiovestibular diagnostic services and refer you to an ENT specialist if required.

Otologists

Otologists are sub-specialists within the field of otolaryngology who focus specifically on disorders of the ear.

They undergo additional training to become experts in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the ear, including hearing loss, ear infections, and tumours of the ear and skull base.

When you should see an otologist

Seek the help of an otologist if you:

• Are dealing with complex or chronic ear-related conditions
• Require specialised surgical interventions for ear conditions

Neurologists

Neurologists specialise in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, specifically those affecting hearing and balance.

Whilst they don’t directly treat hearing loss, they can play a significant role in diagnosing underlying neurological conditions that can impact auditory function, such as multiple sclerosis or acoustic neuromas.

When you should see a neurologist

You should visit a neurologist if any of the following apply to you:

• Experiencing hearing loss along with neurological symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or numbness
• Suspecting underlying neurological conditions affecting hearing or balance

Finding a hearing doctor near you

When seeking help for any hearing issues you may be experiencing, it’s important to do your research and find a qualified, reputable specialist. Whether it’s an audiologist for routine hearing assessments or a neurologist to diagnose a neurological condition, enlisting the help of a trusted clinician will ensure you receive the highest standard of care.

Harley Street Hearing is a London-based independent hearing clinic and has been serving the hearing needs of the community for over 25 years. Our highly trained clinical audiologists offer professional, thorough hearing tests to effectively diagnose hearing loss and advise on suitable treatments.

We can also provide support for tinnitus management, balance disorders, auditory processing disorder and ear wax removal.

As an independent hearing clinic, we can offer hearing aids from all of the leading UK manufacturers with completely unbiased advice on the most appropriate device for you.

We have hearing clinics across London and a team of specialists here to help address your hearing concerns and support you on your journey to better hearing. Click here to call us or fill in the contact form below and we will get back to you.

Measure your tinnitus

You may be surprised to learn that hearing aids are one of the best, if not the best, forms of treatment for tinnitus. Yet, most of you out there suffering from tinnitus today won’t have even considered them as being a solution for you.

I’m going to show you the different styles of tinnitus hearing aids, explain how they’ll help you and whether or not you’re suitable for them.

See the video below for measuring your own tinnitus with a frequency sweep.

Hearing aids and tinnitus

So, how can hearing aids help, and are they the best possible treatment for you?

Now, I say treatment because, sadly, there is no known cure for tinnitus. However, there are plenty of proven ways to make it less intrusive and transform it from being at the forefront of your mind all the time and something that you struggle to escape from, to being something that’s just there in the back of your mind but has no negative impact on your life on a daily basis.

Hearing aids help to reduce tinnitus in two main ways:

1. If you have a hearing loss, the hearing aid should be programmed to that loss and, therefore, fill the void of sound that’s not being sent from your ear to your brain. This filling in of missing sound will mask your tinnitus, and works for around 60 to 70% of the patients we see at Harley Street Hearing with tinnitus and hearing loss combined.
2. Hearing aids can be used for sound enrichment therapy or masking, and this is where each hearing aid manufacturer has their own types of sound enrichment to mask your tinnitus. These sounds can range from different types of noises to nature sounds.

What each hearing aid manufacturer offers

Widex Moment tinnitus hearing aids

Widex has historically been a strong forerunner as the best hearing aid for tinnitus for years now, and this all started when they introduced their Zen sounds back in 2012, and have recently continued to add to their tinnitus features with the introduction of a feature called SoundRelax.

The Widex Moment hearing aid is available in a range of different styles. The style of hearing aid that you’re comfortable wearing is a very personal thing, and some patients prefer a behind-the-ear model, while others prefer an in-the-ear hearing aid.

You must remember that the suitability of a hearing aid is also determined by your hearing test results, so your audiologist should recommend the most appropriate style for you, based on three factors:

• Your preference
• Your hearing test
• Your lifestyle

The different hearing aid styles can give you access to different features. Widex’s tinnitus features are available across all of their technology levels, from their 440s, 330s, 220s, and 110s, with the 440s being the most advanced of all of their technology.

Now, while you can choose from a white noise sound, which is similar to other hearing aid manufacturers, Widex is mainly known for its Zen and SoundRelax sounds, which all need to be activated by your audiologist.

The Zen therapy concept is unique to Widex and involves using fractal tones, which are random, harmonic, and melodic tones that sound a little bit like wind chimes. As they’re unpredictable, your brain doesn’t associate the sound with any other conventional music or sounds to which you may have been exposed. In itself, this encourages overcoming the negative effects caused by your tinnitus.

Widex recently introduced their newest SoundRelax sounds, which Widex claims will help you regain your inner peace with a great new world of relaxing sounds. Not only is Widex’s SoundRelax designed to help all hearing aid wearers, both with and without tinnitus, but Widex states that they will also help you deal with anxiety, they’ll soothe your mind and also boost your concentration levels.

Oticon Real tinnitus hearing aids

Oticon calls their tinnitus feature Tinnitus Sound Support. Oticon’s latest hearing aid to feature these tinnitus features is available in a range of different styles, full details are in the video below.

Oticon’s Tinnitus Sound Support features are available across their different technology levels, so from level one, two, and three, again, with the former being the most advanced of their tech. To activate your tinnitus settings, you’ll need to work with your audiologist to ensure the correct settings for you.

Phonak Lumity tinnitus hearing aids

Phonak approaches its tinnitus treatment in a very similar way to Oticon, with fewer options but a little bit more flexibility. They call their tinnitus feature Tinnitus Balance, and it’s available across Phonak’s family of up-to-date hearing aids, which is incredibly vast, with a few exceptions. (see the video for full details)

As with all other manufacturers, the tinnitus feature needs to be enabled by your audiologist on Phonak’s Target hearing aid fitting software. Yet, differently from all other manufacturers, Phonak focuses on providing you with broadband sounds, rather than nature sounds that we saw with the likes of Oticon.

In my opinion, their selection of three is a little bit disappointing. However, as I mentioned before, there’s a lot of tailoring that can be done to those sounds. Clicking on the tinnitus section in the Target software, you can see that the first option is to set their masking sound to hearing loss, which is similar to the shaped tinnitus feature from Oticon, matching your specific hearing loss.

We do tend to find that patients prefer this option to the others. We then have the white noise, and then finally, pink noise. While the hearing aid software will estimate the most appropriate intensity of masking for your hearing loss, it’s possible to increase or decrease it further still.
Taking this one step further, Phonak also allows further customisation of the frequency response using the graphic equalizer to add more or less bass, mids, or treble according to your needs.

Starkey Genesis AI tinnitus hearing aids

Starkey’s tinnitus program is called Multiflex and is available in all of their newest Genesis AI family of hearing aids. Starkey has a huge selection of styles to choose from, plus it’s built into all technology levels.

Again, the settings need to be activated by your audiologist in the Starkey Profit fitting software, and you have the choice of three different types of masking to choose from: audiogram-shaped, white noise, or customised, which allows the shaping of the Multiflex tinnitus stimulus for a personalised signal with an even greater degree of precision.

Signia IX tinnitus hearing aids

Signia’s tinnitus therapy features are available in all styles, although you do have to take a step back in technology for you to be able to access some of them. For example, it’s available in their Pure Charge&Go IX, their Pure Charge&Go T IX, and their Silk X, which are their most up-to-date family of hearing aids, plus their Motion BTE hearing aids, and the Insio NX IIC, CIC, and ITE, which are older technologies.

Again, Signia’s tinnitus therapy is available in all styles and all technology levels and needs to be programmed via their Connexx hearing aid fitting software. They offer three different strategies against tinnitus, depending on which is the most appropriate for you: static noise therapy, ocean wave therapy, and then Signia’s unique tinnitus Notch therapy.

The static noise tinnitus therapy signals include five preset noise signals, plus the ability to personalise the sound to meet your specific needs. With Signia, you can choose from white noise, pink noise, speech noise, high tone noise, or Brownian noise.

Secondly, Signia has four different ocean wave therapy signals, which are designed to mimic the sound of the sea, including Boulder Beach, Rocky Beach, Pebble Beach, and Paradise Beach. Most of our tinnitus patients do tend to find them very relaxing and also less annoying than some of the standard white noise sounds that are out there.

Finally, and uniquely to Signia, you can access their tinnitus Notch therapy. I found that this method of tinnitus therapy can be pretty effective, depending on the individual. The TNT technique is designed for those experiencing a tonal, such as a ringing, whistling, or buzzing, and it’s different to using any of Signia’s masking sounds, as the concept behind TNT therapy isn’t to drown out the sound with other sound but actually to teach your brain how to ignore it completely.

Signia says that the frequency of your tinnitus is targeted, and amplification of the sound is turned down and relegated to background noise, making it easier for your brain to ignore your tinnitus.

In theory, this means that you don’t waste your energy on your tinnitus, and your stress level should be reduced, as you’re not actively trying to shut it out. Unlike ocean wave and static noise sound therapies, this method is done completely inaudibly, so you might not even realise that you’re going through sound therapy when you’re experiencing it.

The setup process for tinnitus Notch therapy is unique to Signia and, similarly to the tinnitus match and mask diagnostic tool, this process allows your audiologist to identify the specific frequency of your tinnitus. The process works by presenting two different signals, of which you have to choose the closest match to your tinnitus, with the process being repeated until the tone of your tinnitus is matched, which is then the basis of Signia’s tinnitus Notch therapy.

Resound Nexia tinnitus hearing aids

ReSound’s tinnitus sound generator is without question one of the most versatile out there, putting you, the hearing aid user, in the driver’s seat when it comes to adjusting the settings on your hearing aids. The tinnitus features are available for all technology levels and need to be activated through ReSound’s SmartFit hearing aid fitting software.

ReSound has two categories of tinnitus masking sounds. Firstly broadband sounds, with four different types of noise to choose from. This includes high-frequency noise, white noise, speech noise, and pink noise.

The second type of sound enrichment has their selection of nature sounds, which are again, different types of ocean waves, similar to that of Oticon and Signia. Now, there are six in total, ranging from breaking waves, water creeks, calming waves, beach surf, ocean, and then finally, shoreline.

The very first place that you should start looking into overcoming your tinnitus is by getting your hearing tested. So, get yourself booked in with an audiologist who knows about tinnitus and also specifically optimising hearing aids related to tinnitus, which is, in fact, quite specialist. So, make sure you do your research first.

Hearing aids alone can be a huge help in terms of treating your tinnitus, and employing tinnitus retraining therapy can increase the chances of helping you overcome your tinnitus even further.

The best thing for you to do is to work closely with your audiologist to identify which masking sound is the most effective for you. However, if you don’t think that you’re ready for hearing aids just yet, then you might want to look at this pretty mind-blowing alternative tinnitus treatment.

Comparing the best hearing aids for tinnitus in 2024

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing, and a content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinion on all new hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can view his video where he shares his opinions on the best hearing aids for tinnitus in 2024 below.

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