British Association for PERFORMING Arts Medicine
Improving Hearing Health
You can also download this advice as a shareable infographic (pdf)
Some hearing problems need urgent attention
If you experience sudden change in hearing in one or both ears, or symptoms such as those listed here, seek urgent attention:
- Discharge (fluid, blood, pus)
- Dizziness/vertigo
- Facial weakness
- Foreign body in ear
- Pain
- Loudness intolerance (hyperacusis)
- Pitch distortion (diplacusis)
- Perceived loss of sensitivity
Clinical assessment for hearing problems is essential
If you have a hearing problem, contact your NHS GP. Go to A&E if you have sudden hearing loss
BAPAM can give you additional advice
Always seek clinical assessment if your symptoms change. Financial support may be available for rapid access to specialist diagnosis and advice (see BAPAM Factsheet: Financial and Practical Support)
Prevent hearing problems
Hearing health risks:
Performance professionals work in a sound rich environment
Noise exposure is increased by non-occupational noise, such as travel, socialising and electronic or electrical equipment
Poor general health: chronic disease, smoking, alcohol, nutrition, prescribed or recreational drugs can all impact hearing
Age-related hearing changes are inevitable
Help and advice is available:
BAPAM Hearing Conservation Guidance – Risk assessment and meaningful mitigation
Musicians Hearing Health Scheme – Personal hearing protection scheme from Help Musicians, the Musicians’ Union and Musicians’ Hearing Services
British Tinnitus Association – Specialist advice and support for people living with tinnitus, plus information on hearing protection.
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BAPAM is a Registered Charity No. 1167785
Contact us:
London Office
63 Mansell Street, London, E1 8AN