Hearing Loss Needs Urgent GP Review

Why hearing loss matters

Hearing loss is more than an inconvenience. It affects communication, safety, work, relationships, and mental wellbeing. While gradual hearing changes are common with ageing or noise exposure, sudden or rapidly worsening hearing loss is a medical red flag and should be assessed urgently. Early review can make a critical difference to outcomes.

Different ways hearing loss can present

Hearing loss may affect one ear or both. Some people notice muffled sounds, difficulty following conversations, or needing higher volume levels. Others experience distortion, blocked-ear sensation, or associated symptoms such as ringing in the ears, dizziness, ear pain, or pressure. The pattern and speed of change provide important diagnostic clues.

Common and less urgent causes

Gradual hearing loss often relates to age-related inner ear changes or long-term noise exposure. Earwax blockage, middle-ear fluid, or ear infections can also reduce hearing and are usually treatable once identified. These causes often develop slowly and improve with appropriate care.

When hearing loss becomes urgent

Sudden hearing loss, especially in one ear, is a medical urgency. It may occur over hours or days and is sometimes accompanied by tinnitus, dizziness, or a feeling of fullness. This pattern can reflect sudden sensorineural hearing loss, where early treatment significantly improves the chance of recovery. Hearing loss after head injury, infection, or alongside neurological symptoms also requires prompt assessment.

Red flags that need immediate attention

Seek urgent GP or emergency care if hearing loss:

• develops suddenly or worsens rapidly

• affects one ear only

• occurs with severe dizziness or balance problems

• follows head trauma

• is associated with facial weakness, numbness, or speech difficulty

• comes with severe ear pain or discharge

Do not wait for symptoms to “settle” if these features are present.

How your GP assesses hearing loss

Your GP takes a careful history, examines the ears, and checks the nervous system where appropriate. They distinguish between conductive causes (such as earwax or fluid) and sensorineural causes (inner ear or nerve-related). Urgent referral for hearing tests, ENT assessment, or imaging may be arranged depending on findings.

Why early action improves outcomes

Some causes of hearing loss are reversible, but only within a limited time window. Delaying assessment can reduce the chance of recovery. Even when hearing loss is permanent, early diagnosis allows timely support, hearing rehabilitation, and strategies that protect long-term communication and quality of life.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.