Ear wax removal and hearing aids in Glasgow

Struggling to hear conversations, or ears that feel blocked and muffled? In Glasgow, ear wax build-up and age-related hearing loss are the two most common causes, and both can usually be helped. NHS arrangements in Scotland differ from England, so this guide covers what applies in Glasgow.

Quick answer: In parts of Glasgow you can book NHS ear care directly with a health centre treatment room after oiling your ears for 7 days. Private removal typically costs £50–£100. NHS hearing aids are free in Scotland: ask your GP for a referral to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde audiology, or go private for a quicker appointment.

Ear wax removal in Glasgow

Oil your ears first

Glasgow GP guidance asks patients to oil their ears 3 to 4 times a day for 7 days in a row before booking ear care. Use olive oil, almond oil or a wax softener from a pharmacy. Lie with the affected ear facing up when putting drops in, and don't use cotton buds. Don't use drops if you have a hole in your eardrum.

Self-referral to NHS treatment rooms

Since January 2022, GP practices in the south of Glasgow have told patients they no longer need a GP referral for ear care. You can call a health centre reception directly to book. Treatment rooms listed for south Glasgow include:

A nurse checks whether the wax is soft enough to remove. Most appointments are irrigation. Microsuction sessions have been listed at Govan Health Centre (Monday afternoons) and Gorbals Health Centre (Fridays). If you live elsewhere in Glasgow, ask your GP practice which treatment room serves you.

Private ear wax removal

Private clinics across Glasgow offer microsuction, irrigation and manual removal. Prices typically range from £50 to £100. Some practitioners offer home visits.

See a doctor instead if you have sudden hearing loss, ear pain, discharge, bleeding or dizziness. Contact your GP or NHS 24 on 111.

Hearing tests and hearing aids in Glasgow

The NHS route

NHS Scotland provides digital hearing aids free of charge. In Glasgow, adult hearing aid services are run by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) Audiology.

1. See your GP. They'll check your ears and can refer you to audiology.
2. Hearing assessment with an NHSGGC audiologist.
3. Free hearing aids, fitting and aftercare.

Waits for NHS audiology in Glasgow have been long, so some people choose a private hearing test first.

Private hearing care

Independent audiologists and high-street chains across Glasgow offer hearing tests, often free, and private hearing aids. These typically cost £1,000–£4,000+ a pair.

Help for older people and families in Glasgow

• RNID Near You at Anniesland Library: volunteers help with basic repairs and maintenance of NHS hearing aids.
• Alerts at home: visual and vibrating alerts for the doorbell, phone and smoke alarm.
• If stairs are also becoming difficult, see our guide to stairlifts in Glasgow.

Areas we cover in Glasgow

Glasgow and the surrounding area, including the West End, Southside, Shawlands, Partick, Govan, Dennistoun, Govanhill and Pollokshields, plus Bearsden, Milngavie, Giffnock, Newton Mearns, Rutherglen, Paisley and East Kilbride.

How we work

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Please note: This is a general guide, not medical advice. Treatment room arrangements, referral routes and prices change, so check with your GP practice, NHSGGC or the provider before booking.