Hearing aids and ear wax removal in Leicester
Turning the TV up, missing parts of conversations, or ears that feel blocked? In Leicester, NHS hearing services run from the Leicester Royal Infirmary and a network of clinics across Leicestershire and Rutland, with home visits and repairs by post. This guide covers hearing aids first, then ear wax.
Quick answer: For hearing loss, ask your GP to refer you to University Hospitals of Leicester adult hearing services (0116 258 6230) for free NHS hearing aids, or go private for a quicker appointment. For ear wax, use oil drops first, then ask your GP practice, or book privately (typically £50–£100).
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Hearing tests and hearing aids in Leicester
The NHS route: University Hospitals of Leicester
- Main clinic: Leicester Royal Infirmary, LE1 5WW
- Local clinics: Loughborough, Hinckley, Melton Mowbray, Syston, Oakham, Coalville and Braunstone. Not every appointment type is available at every site.
- By appointment only. Phone 0116 258 6230 or text 07729 188421.
- Repairs: 0116 258 5120 (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday). Repairs and batteries can also be handled by post.
- Home visits for people who can't get to a clinic.
- How to start: ask your GP for a referral. NHS hearing aids are free for adults.
Private hearing care
Independent audiologists, high-street chains and pharmacies in Leicester offer hearing tests, often free, and private hearing aids, typically £1,000–£4,000+ a pair.
| NHS | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free for adults | Typically £1,000–£4,000+ a pair |
| How to start | GP referral | Book directly |
| Home visits | Available for those unable to attend | Offered by some providers |
| Repairs | In clinic or by post | From the provider, so check what's included |
Ear wax removal in Leicester
Try oil drops first
The NHS advises 2 to 3 drops of olive or almond oil, 3 to 4 times a day, for 3 to 5 days. Don't use cotton buds, and don't use drops if you have a hole in your eardrum.
NHS and private options
The NHS says not all GP surgeries remove ear wax. Ask your practice whether it offers removal or can refer you elsewhere. Leicester has many private ear wax clinics, pharmacies and audiologists offering microsuction and irrigation, typically for £50–£100. Home visits are also available.
Tip: If you're booked for a hearing test, mention any blocked ears, because wax can affect the results.
See a doctor instead if you have sudden hearing loss, ear pain, discharge, bleeding or dizziness. Contact your GP or NHS 111.
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Help for older people and families in Leicester
- Tinnitus and balance support is also available through Leicester's NHS audiology service.
- Alerts at home: visual and vibrating doorbell, phone and smoke alarms.
- If stairs are also becoming difficult, see our guide to stairlifts in Leicester.
Areas we cover in Leicester
Leicester and Leicestershire, including Oadby, Wigston, Birstall, Glenfield, Braunstone Town, Thurmaston, Anstey, Evington and Narborough, plus Syston, Loughborough and Hinckley.
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Please note: This is a general guide, not medical advice. Clinic locations, phone lines and prices change, so check with your GP practice, University Hospitals of Leicester or the provider before booking.