For three years, Chris had noticed a gradual decline in his hearing. Working in a large open-plan office became increasingly difficult; he struggled to follow conversations with colleagues sitting right next to him and often realised after meetings that he had misheard important details. At home, the television sounded muffled, and his hi-fi and recorded music no longer carried the clarity and depth he knew so well. There was a constant feeling of missing out, which left him frustrated.
One of the main reasons Chris delayed seeking help was his love of music. With a lifelong passion for hi-fi and live performance, he worried that hearing aids might diminish his enjoyment rather than enhance it.
Eventually, he decided to take action.
While researching online, Chris discovered Harley Street Hearing through the HearingTracker YouTube channel, where he was impressed by the direct and professional approach of Matthew Allsop, one of the clinic’s audiologists and partners.
After careful thought, he booked an appointment. The hearing test he received was more thorough than any he had experienced before and confirmed what he had long suspected: significant high-frequency hearing loss, more severe than he realised. The consultation was not pressured, and he felt comfortable moving forward at his own pace.
At his second appointment, Chris was fitted with trial hearing aids. Over the following six weeks, at home, in the office, and even while on holiday in Italy, he noticed a remarkable difference. Music sounded vibrant and full again, conversations were clearer, and he could finally participate in meetings with confidence. Whenever he removed the aids, he quickly realised just how much he had been missing.
Chris credits much of his positive experience to his audiologist, Fiona Butterworth. With her background in music, she immediately understood his concerns. She took the time to learn about his hobbies and priorities, explained every option clearly, and ensured the aids were tailored precisely to his needs. Her professionalism and thorough follow-up care gave Chris complete confidence.
He ultimately chose Phonak Audéo Infinio Sphere hearing aids, which have transformed his daily life. Today, he finds that life feels much richer, especially when listening to music, having conversations, and working in busy environments.
He has noticed significant improvements in:
- Working in a large open-plan office
- Watching TV at home
- Listening to music on his hi-fi and in live settings
- Listening in meetings and social gatherings
The hearing aids are discreet, comfortable, and easily customised through the app, so much so that Chris often forgets he is wearing them.
Reflecting on his journey
Chris encourages others not to delay seeking help, commenting: ‘Don’t delay because there’s no point. If you suspect you’ve got hearing loss, then you probably have. It’s worth finding out the severity. Don’t be scared about what people are going to think, because it’s really not as bad as it is in your own head.’
If you’d like to find out more about hearing aids to suit your specific needs please call us on 020 7486 1053 or complete our contact form.
