Embrace the Sounds of Summer: Tips for Looking After Your Hearing

Ealing Hearing Centre • June 20, 2024

Summer is a season filled with vibrant sounds—from the cheerful chirping of birds to the rhythmic waves crashing on the shore.

At Ealing Hearing Centre, we want to ensure you enjoy every moment of this soundscape by taking excellent care of your hearing. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your ears and maintain optimal hearing health this summer.


1. Protect Your Ears from Loud Noises

Summer often means outdoor concerts, fireworks, and bustling festivals. While these events are fun, the high noise levels can harm your hearing. To protect your ears:

- Use Earplugs: Keep a pair of high-fidelity earplugs handy to reduce noise levels without compromising sound quality.

- Maintain Safe Distances: Stand at a reasonable distance from speakers and other loud sound sources.

- Limit Exposure: Take breaks from the noise to give your ears a rest.


2. Keep Your Ears Dry

Swimming is a favourite summer activity, but prolonged exposure to water can lead to ear infections. Here’s how to keep your ears dry:

- Use Earplugs: Wear waterproof earplugs when swimming to prevent water from entering your ear canals.

- Dry Your Ears: After swimming, gently dry your ears with a towel and tilt your head to let any trapped water escape.

- Avoid Cotton Swabs: Don’t use cotton swabs to dry or clean your ears, as they can push water further inside and cause damage.


3. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is crucial for overall health, including your hearing. Dehydration can lead to thicker earwax, which may cause blockages and hearing issues. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain proper ear function.


4. Beware of Ear Infections

Warm weather and water activities increase the risk of ear infections. To prevent infections:

- Keep Ears Clean: Maintain good ear hygiene, but avoid over-cleaning, which can strip away protective earwax.

- Avoid Contaminated Water: Swim in clean, well-maintained pools and avoid water with high bacteria levels.


5. Schedule a Hearing Check-Up

Regular hearing check-ups are vital for maintaining good hearing health. Summer is an ideal time to schedule a visit to Ealing Hearing Centre. Our comprehensive hearing tests can detect early signs of hearing loss, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.


6. Use Hearing Protection Devices

If you already use hearing aids, ensure they are well-maintained and equipped with moisture-resistant features. Summer heat and humidity can affect electronic devices, so keep them dry and store them in a safe place when not in use. If you are unsure, please call us.


7. Enjoy Nature’s Sounds

Take advantage of the quieter moments of summer to relax and listen to nature’s soothing sounds. These natural sounds can be therapeutic and beneficial for your overall well-being.


Summer offers a symphony of delightful sounds that you shouldn’t miss due to preventable hearing issues. By following these tips, you can protect your ears and enjoy the season to its fullest. At Ealing Hearing Centre, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain excellent hearing health. If you have any concerns or need advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Here’s to a sound-filled summer!


For more information or to schedule a hearing assessment, visit Ealing Hearing Centre today. Enjoy your summer with the confidence of clear, healthy hearing! 

By Aarti Raicha October 6, 2025
Too much ear wax doesn’t just block sound. It makes the brain work harder to keep up. That constant effort can take a toll on focus and memory. Researchers have even found that untreated hearing loss is tied to a greater risk of dementia. One review that looked at 17 studies showed the link clearly. This is why ear care matters. It’s not just about comfort, it’s about keeping your brain in good shape for the future. How Hearing and Brain Function Are Connected
By Aarti Raicha September 22, 2025
Ear wax isn’t a bad thing; in fact, it protects your ears. But when it builds up too much, it can cause problems. People often notice muffled hearing, dizziness, or even a full “blocked” sensation that doesn’t go away. A 2020 study published in the British Journal of General Practice found that dizziness and reduced hearing were the most common complaints in patients with impacted ear wax. The study also noted that community clinics (such as local hearing centres) play a vital role in making ear care accessible, avoiding long waits for hospital treatment. So, if you’re in Ealing and struggling with blocked ears, microsuction is one of the safest and quickest ways to get relief. But what actually happens when you book? Let’s walk through it step by step. What Exactly Is Microsuction? Microsuction is a method of clearing wax from the ear canal using a tiny suction device. It’s done under direct vision with a microscope, so the specialist can see exactly what’s happening inside your ear. If you’ve ever had syringing before (where water is pushed into the ear), you’ll know it can feel a bit messy. Microsuction is different: no water, no flushing — just careful, precise removal. That’s why many hearing-care professionals now recommend it over older methods. Why So Many People Choose Microsuction in Ealing More people in Ealing are choosing microsuction because it works — and quickly. A study of 159 patients found that microsuction successfully cleared wax in 91% of cases. There can be mild side effects. Around 55% of patients reported dizziness, temporary reduced hearing, or that sounds were unusually loud during the procedure; however, most of these effects were short-lived. Importantly, using softening drops before treatment made the experience more comfortable for many people. What makes it appealing for people in Ealing is the balance of safety and convenience. Because no water is used, the risk of infection is lower, and appointments are usually completed in under 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into a lunch break or busy schedule. Getting Ready for Your Appointment The great thing about microsuction is that it doesn’t need much preparation. In most cases, you can simply book and attend your appointment. Sometimes, your audiologist might suggest using olive oil drops for a few days to soften the wax, but it isn’t always necessary. A couple of tips before you go: Bring along any details about past ear problems or surgery. Take your hearing aids with you if you use them so they can be checked once the wax is removed. And most importantly, don’t worry. The process is very easy, and most people are surprised at how quick it feels. Your audiologist won’t just dive in; they’ll explain each step so you’re comfortable. What Happens During the Appointment
By Aarti Raicha September 6, 2025
When was the last time you had your hearing checked? If you’re like most people, the answer is either never or a very long time ago. We’re good at booking regular eye tests, keeping up with dental check-ups, even tracking blood pressure. But hearing? That often slips to the bottom of the list. Part of the problem is that hearing changes usually sneak up on you. You don’t wake up one morning unable to hear. It’s slower, subtler. The TV creeps up a notch. You catch yourself asking “pardon?” more often. In a noisy café, you might laugh along even though you miss half the conversation. Little by little, those changes add up and before long, friends or family are pointing it out. That’s exactly why hearing tests in Stanmore matter. One quick, painless check can pick up changes before you even realize they’re there. Why Hearing Tests Matter Hearing loss doesn’t just mean “turning the volume up.” It touches everything. Suddenly conversations in a busy café feel like hard work. Nights out or family dinners leave you more drained than they used to. Some people even start avoiding those situations altogether, just to make life easier. And here’s something many people don’t realize: your brain is involved in hearing just as much as your ears are. When your ears miss part of a word, your brain scrambles to fill in the gaps. Do that all day, every day, and it’s exhausting. Over years, that constant strain can affect memory and has even been linked to dementia. Lucky for you, you don’t have to wait until it gets to that point. What to Expect at a Hearing Test