Ear wax removal and hearing aids in Cardiff
Ears feeling blocked, or struggling to hear conversations and the TV? In Cardiff, NHS hearing care is organised by NHS Wales, which works a little differently from England. If you already have NHS hearing aids, you can usually contact audiology directly. This guide explains your options in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.
Quick answer: For ear wax, use oil drops first, then ask your GP practice what's available locally, or book a private appointment (typically £50–£100). For hearing loss, new patients need a GP referral to Cardiff and Vale audiology (02921 843179). Existing NHS hearing aid users can contact audiology directly for repairs and repeat tests.
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Ear wax removal in Cardiff
Try oil drops first
Softening the wax with olive or almond oil drops, a few times a day for several days, is the usual first step. Don't use cotton buds, and don't use drops if you have a hole in your eardrum.
NHS ear wax care in Wales
The Welsh Government has a national ear wax management pathway for primary and community care, which sets out how ear wax should be managed outside hospital. Local arrangements in Cardiff and the Vale vary, so ask your GP practice what it offers or where it can refer you.
Private ear wax removal
Pharmacies, high-street chains and independent audiologists in Cardiff offer microsuction and irrigation, typically for £50–£100. Home-visit practitioners also cover Cardiff, Penarth and Barry.
See a doctor instead if you have sudden hearing loss, ear pain, discharge, bleeding or dizziness. Contact your GP or NHS 111 Wales.
Hearing tests and hearing aids in Cardiff
The NHS route: Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
- New patients: need a referral from a GP or other health professional.
- Existing hearing aid users: no new referral needed. Contact audiology directly for hearing tests and repairs.
- Repeat hearing tests: recommended every 3 years. Contact audiology to arrange one.
- Where: University Hospital of Wales, and West Quay Medical Centre, Barry.
- Contact: 02921 843179 or Audiology.helpline.CAV@wales.nhs.uk
- Cost: NHS hearing aids are free.
Private hearing care
Independent audiologists and high-street chains in Cardiff offer hearing tests, often free, and private hearing aids, typically £1,000–£4,000+ a pair. Some offer 0% finance.
| NHS Wales | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Typically £1,000–£4,000+ a pair |
| How to start | GP referral (new patients); direct contact (existing users) | Book directly |
| Waiting time | Can be longer | Usually quicker |
| Choice | NHS digital range | Wider range, including rechargeable, Bluetooth and nearly invisible styles |
Help for older people and families in Cardiff
- Alerts at home: visual and vibrating doorbell, phone and smoke alarms help if you can't hear them.
- If stairs are also becoming difficult, see our guide to stairlifts in Cardiff.
Areas we cover in Cardiff
Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan, including Canton, Roath, Llandaff, Whitchurch, Rhiwbina, Llanishen, Cyncoed, Pontprennau and Llandaff North, plus Penarth and Barry.
Find ear wax removal or a hearing test in Cardiff
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Please note: This is a general guide, not medical advice. Referral routes and prices change, so check with your GP practice, Cardiff and Vale audiology or the provider before booking.