Profound deafness in one ear since young, but now good ear deteriorating with age - any tips/advice for hearing aids etc?

[WaitingForSummerAgain]

Hi

I am deaf in one ear completely after measles/mumps when I was a toddler. The good ear was always ok, but now in my mid 40's I am starting to notice that I am struggling with the good ear more- mumbly tv, really struggling with conversations when there is back ground noise etc.

I have tried a few online hearing tests and the say mild or mild to moderate for the good one now- all sounds types in this range rather than just high/low frequencies etc.

I am trying to arrange an audiologist appointment but was wondering if anyone had similar and could offer any advice? I wanted to be a bit more clued up before I go :(

Specsavers are ringing me for a telephone consult later in the week, but only do 2 hearing aids to buy, and I only need 1 as the bad ear is not fixable. They do work with the NHS though.

I have also been looking at a local independent hearing clinic who I don't think do NHS but might sell them as a single rather than pairs?

Has anyone had similar issues and how did you get on, and are private aids better than NHS? I don't mind paying if it makes a difference in the long run.

Thank you!

[scarfaceace]

Sorry - I obviously meant audiology, not ophthalmology!

[scarfaceace]

AnneHB - can you get a hearing aid on the NHS?

[AnneHB]

Yes I agree Bufferingkisses. You should be checked out by medics first to diagnose reason for deterioration in hearing. So GP check first and maybe then referral to specialist and then you will be advised if hearing aid is way to go. Maybe something simple like wax removal.