Wigan Hearing Q&A

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At Wigan Hearing, we know people often have the same worries:
“Do I have too much ear wax?”
“Are hearing aids expensive?”
“Do I really need a hearing test?”Wigan Hearing Q&A

This complete Q&A guide covers the most common questions we receive every single day in our Standish clinic. Clear, simple, and fully explained by a qualified audiologist.

1. What are the signs I need ear wax removal?

You may need microsuction ear wax removal if you notice:

  • Muffled or blocked hearing

  • A “full” or pressured feeling in the ear

  • Ringing or crackling sounds

  • Itching or discomfort

  • Sound becomes sharp when you move your jaw

  • Your AirPods or hearing aids suddenly sound dull

If you’re unsure, we offer a ear health check at the start of every wax appointment.

👉 Book professional ear wax removal:
https://calendly.com/wigan-hearing/ear-wax-removal

2. Is microsuction ear wax removal safe?

Yes. Microsuction is the gold standard, safest method available. It uses a gentle medical suction device — no water, no syringing, no pressure.

At Wigan Hearing we also include FREE tympanometry (middle ear test) to check for hidden issues such as fluid or eardrum problems.

3. How long does ear wax removal take?

Most appointments take 10–20 minutes, depending on the amount of wax. If your ears are fully blocked, we may recommend a short follow-up at no extra cost.

4. Do I need to use olive oil before my appointment?

You can if you want to soften the wax, but you don’t have to.
Microsuction works perfectly well without it — ideal if you have a last-minute blockage.

5. How often should I have a hearing test?

We recommend:

  • Every 12–24 months for adults

  • Every year for hearing aid users

  • Immediately if you notice a sudden change

A full diagnostic test at Wigan Hearing includes:

  • Pure-tone audiometry

  • Speech testing

  • Tympanometry

  • Acoustic reflex testing (if required)

  • Video otoscopy (camera in the ear)

This is far more detailed than basic “screening tests” offered in some retail settings.

Book a full hearing assessment at Wigan Hearing.

6. Are hearing aids expensive?

Not necessarily — it depends on:

  • Technology level

  • Features

  • Rechargeability

  • Bluetooth/streaming

  • Noise reduction sophistication

  • Brand (Phonak, Oticon, Widex, Starkey, Resound, etc.)

Wigan Hearing offers all the major manufacturers, not just one brand.
Prices start from affordable options right through to advanced premium technology.

7. What’s the difference between NHS hearing aids and private hearing aids?

NHS Hearing Aids:

  • Free

  • Good for basic amplification

  • Limited models and features

  • Long waiting lists for adjustments

  • No real-ear measurements in many areas

Private Hearing Aids (Wigan Hearing):

  • Access to the latest premium technology

  • Rechargeable options

  • Bluetooth streaming

  • Custom 3D ear scanning

  • Real-ear measurements on every fitting

  • 1–5 year aftercare & support

  • Same-week adjustments

If you rely on hearing for work, relationships, or social life, private hearing care can make a significant difference.

8. Can ear wax cause hearing loss?

Absolutely. Wax can:

  • Block the canal

  • Cover the eardrum

  • Interfere with sound transmission

The good news?
Wax-related hearing loss is 100% reversible once removed.

9. Can hearing aids make my hearing worse?

No — properly fitted hearing aids do not damage your hearing.
Poorly fitted or over-amplified devices can cause problems, which is why we use:

  • Real Ear Measurements (REM)

  • Speech mapping

  • Custom programming

  • Manufacturer calibration

This ensures your hearing aids are set exactly for your ears and your hearing loss.

10. Do you offer children’s hearing tests?

We offer screening for children, but full paediatric diagnostics are performed by the NHS Audiology Service.
However, we can remove wax from children aged 6+ if they can stay still and are comfortable.

11. Do cotton buds really make ear wax worse?

Yes — they push wax deeper, cause blockages, and can scratch the ear canal.
80% of the blockages we see in clinic are caused by cotton bud use.

12. What if my problem isn’t wax?

If your ears are clear, we investigate:

  • Middle ear issues

  • Eardrum problems

  • Sudden hearing loss

  • Tinnitus

  • Infection warning signs

  • Noise exposure damage

You’ll leave with answers and a proper care plan.

Want expert ear care in Standish?

Wigan Hearing is the only full-time independent audiology clinic in the borough with:

✔ HCPC registered audiologist
✔ Advanced diagnostics
✔ Free tympanometry with wax removal
✔ Same-day and next-day appointments
✔ Family-run, local, trusted
✔ Free parking right outside

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