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	<title>Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</title>
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		<title>How to Protect Your Hearing Aids This Summer</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/07/08/hearing-aids-summer-care/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Toby Meadows]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:41:07 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Ear Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hearing Devices]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7403</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/07/08/hearing-aids-summer-care/">How to Protect Your Hearing Aids This Summer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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	<p>Summer brings some specific challenges for hearing aid wearers, most of which are easy to manage once you know what to watch for. Here is my practical guide to keeping your devices in good shape through the warmer months.</p>
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	<p><em>(Image: Widex Hearing Aids available at Meadows &amp; Wood)</em></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>How robust are modern hearing aids?</strong></h3>
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<p>More robust than many people expect. <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/hearing-aids/">Modern behind-the-ear and receiver-in-canal hearing aids</a> from the leading manufacturers now carry an IP68 rating, which is the top of the international scale for dust and moisture protection. Tested to withstand submersion in clean water to one metre depth, these devices are built for active daily life.</p>
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<p>The leading manufacturers go further than the standard requires. Prescription hearing aids are subjected to saline mist testing over 28 days and must come out fully functional. That is a meaningful test of real-world durability, far beyond what a walk in the rain or a sweaty afternoon in the garden represents. One of my patients came back from holiday having accidentally jumped into the pool with his hearing aids in. He was braced for the worst. They worked perfectly. He was surprised; I was not.</p>
<h3><strong>Where IP68 has limits</strong></h3>
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<p>IP68 is tested in clean, still, fresh water. It does not account for sea water, which is corrosive and works its way into components over time. It does not account for dynamic wave pressure, or the chemical properties of sunscreen, hairspray and other products we use every day. The rating is reassuring, but it is not a green light for swimming.</p>
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<p>Remove your hearing aids before entering any body of water. After a day near the coast, a gentle wipe down with a dry cloth before storing your devices overnight is a good habit worth forming.</p>
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            <img decoding="async" class="img-with-animation skip-lazy" data-delay="0" height="348" width="348" data-animation="none" src="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed.jpg" alt="Hearing aid care top tip summer" srcset="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed.jpg 348w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-300x300.jpg 300w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-150x150.jpg 150w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-140x140.jpg 140w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 348px) 100vw, 348px" />
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	<h3><b>Before you go out</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One of the simplest rules I give patients is this: hearing aids go in last. Hairspray, perfume and sunscreen all send fine droplets into the air, and the microphone ports on hearing aids are remarkably good at catching them. Aerosol hairspray is particularly problematic because the spray lingers. Perfume is less obvious but the alcohol and oils in many fragrances can affect the casing seals over time. Apply everything first, let it settle, then fit your hearing aids. It takes an extra two minutes and saves a lot of problems.</span></p>
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	<h3><b>Heat, storage and staying active</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A car in summer can reach temperatures that damage both batteries and internal components. The same applies to a windowsill in direct sunlight. Store your devices in their case, in a cool dry place, whenever they are not in use.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Active wearers sometimes find solutions without realising it. One of my patients is a marathon runner. He wears a sweatband during races, which he assumed was just keeping the sweat out of his eyes. It turns out it was doing the same job for his hearing aids. If you are regularly active in warm weather, a hearing aid sweatband or sleeve is worth considering.</span></p>
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            <img decoding="async" class="img-with-animation skip-lazy" data-delay="0" height="337" width="337" data-animation="none" src="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-1.jpg" alt="In-canal hearing aids" srcset="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-1.jpg 337w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-1-140x140.jpg 140w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/unnamed-1-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 337px) 100vw, 337px" />
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	<h3><b>A word about in-canal hearing aids</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Patients wearing in-canal styles, including completely-in-canal and invisible-in-canal models, need to be particularly attentive in summer. These devices sit in the warmest, most humid part of the ear, and unlike behind-the-ear models they cannot carry the same moisture resistance ratings. Their smaller casings are more vulnerable to the combined effects of heat, humidity and earwax, which summer tends to increase.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">If you wear an in-canal device, a routine clean and check every three to four months is the baseline recommendation. I would also suggest coming in before and after the summer if you are planning to be active outdoors. A small build-up of earwax or moisture is straightforward to address when caught early. Left unattended it can affect sound quality significantly.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">In-canal hearing aids remain a genuinely excellent option, offering discretion that other styles cannot match, and the technology continues to advance. Summer is simply when their care routine matters most.</span></p>
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	<h3><b>Swimming and earwax</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whatever style you wear, remove hearing aids before entering any water. It is also worth knowing that regular swimming can contribute to earwax build-up regardless of whether you wear hearing aids, as water affects the ear canal&#8217;s natural self-cleaning mechanism. If your hearing feels blocked or muffled by the end of the summer, earwax removal is usually the straightforward answer.</span></p>
<h3><b>Book a check before you travel</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A quick appointment before you go away is time well spent. We can check your devices are functioning properly, clean the ports, <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/earwax-removal/">address any earwax concerns</a>, and make sure you know what to do if something goes wrong while you are away. For patients with in-canal devices particularly, a pre-holiday check is a good idea.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">We have clinics at <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/hearing-specialists-worle/">Worle</a>, <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/hearing-specialists-weston-super-mare/">Weston-super-Mare</a>, <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/hearing-specialists-portishead/hearing-tests/">Portishead</a>, Shirehampton and <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/hearing-specialists-clevedon/">Clevedon</a>, all within easy reach of the coast. Walk-in appointments are available daily at Worle. For Portishead, Shirehampton or Clevedon, call 01275 401144. To book online or reach us at Worle, call 01934 248426 or visit meadowswood.co.uk.</span></p>
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</div></div><p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/07/08/hearing-aids-summer-care/">How to Protect Your Hearing Aids This Summer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>Toby On BBC Radio Bristol with John Darvall</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/06/22/toby-on-bbc-radio-bristol-v2/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:46:35 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Ear Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hearing Test]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Some fun with the team]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[audiologist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Clevedon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ear health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hearing care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Somerset]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Portishead]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[risk of fall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weston-super-Mare]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7379</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Toby joined John Darvell on BBC Radio Bristol to talk about the signs of hearing loss, the truth about volume versus clarity. Listen to the full interview.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/06/22/toby-on-bbc-radio-bristol-v2/">Toby On BBC Radio Bristol with John Darvall</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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	<h4>Toby joined John Darvell on BBC Radio Bristol for a conversation that started with a simple question: how do you actually know if you have a hearing problem? Press play to hear the lovely conversation between Toby and John.</h4>
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	<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">In this lively interview John kicked things off with a question most of us have either asked or been asked: why is the television always so loud? From there, Toby and John range across everything from how hearing loss actually works to why the solution is rarely as simple as turning up the volume.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">One of the things Toby explains really clearly is why so many people feel that everyone around them has started mumbling. It comes down to the difference between volume and clarity. The sounds that fade first with age-related hearing loss are the high-frequency consonants, the S, T, F and SH sounds that give words their shape. If you want to understand more about what&#8217;s actually happening when hearing changes with age, our article on age-related hearing loss is a good place to start.</p>
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<div class="nectar-cta  border_color_2170B6 border_thickness_4px alignment_tablet_default alignment_phone_default display_tablet_inherit display_phone_inherit " data-color="accent-color" data-using-bg="true" data-style="basic" data-display="block" data-alignment="left" data-text-color="custom" style="--nectar-text-color: #FFFFFF; --nectar-button-color: var(--nectar-accent-color); --nectar-icon-gap: 6px; "><h5 style="color: #FFFFFF;"><span class="link_wrap" style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px;"><a  class="link_text" role="button" href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2025/11/03/age-related-hearing-loss-what-you-need-to-know/"><span class="text">Age Related Hearing Loss</span></a></span></h5></div>
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	<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Toby and John also talk about the way untreated hearing loss can lead people to quietly withdraw from situations they find difficult. It might seem like a small thing, but the knock-on effects can be significant. If you&#8217;d like to read more about the wider health connections Toby touches on in the interview, including the link with cognitive health, this article goes into it in more depth.</p>
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<div class="nectar-cta  border_color_2170B6 border_thickness_4px alignment_tablet_default alignment_phone_default display_tablet_inherit display_phone_inherit " data-color="accent-color" data-using-bg="true" data-style="basic" data-display="block" data-alignment="left" data-text-color="custom" style="--nectar-text-color: #FFFFFF; --nectar-button-color: var(--nectar-accent-color); --nectar-icon-gap: 6px; "><h5 style="color: #FFFFFF;"><span class="link_wrap" style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px;"><a  class="link_text" role="button" href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2025/07/01/the-link-between-hearing-loss-and-dementia/"><span class="text">The Link Between Hearing Loss &amp; Dementia</span></a></span></h5></div>
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	<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">There&#8217;s also a really reassuring section on modern hearing aids, and how far the technology has come from the devices people might remember from years ago. If the thought of hearing aids still feels like a big step, our article on breaking the stigma might change your mind.</p>
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<div class="nectar-cta  border_color_2170B6 border_thickness_4px alignment_tablet_default alignment_phone_default display_tablet_inherit display_phone_inherit " data-color="accent-color" data-using-bg="true" data-style="basic" data-display="block" data-alignment="left" data-text-color="custom" style="--nectar-text-color: #FFFFFF; --nectar-button-color: var(--nectar-accent-color); --nectar-icon-gap: 6px; "><h5 style="color: #FFFFFF;"><span class="link_wrap" style="padding-top: 5px; padding-right: 5px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 5px;"><a  class="link_text" role="button" href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2024/04/01/breaking-the-stigma-of-hearing-loss/"><span class="text">Breaking The Sigma of hearing loss</span></a></span></h5></div>
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	<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Most of all, this is a conversation that makes the whole subject feel very approachable, and Toby&#8217;s experience really comes through.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">If anything in the interview resonates with you or someone you care about, the most useful thing you can do is book a hearing assessment. It&#8217;s straightforward, there&#8217;s no pressure, and it gives you a clear picture of where your hearing is today. Get in touch with the team at Meadows &amp; Wood to arrange yours. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Call us on <strong>01934 248426</strong>, we are here to help.</span></p>
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<div class="nectar-cta  border_color_00AEEF border_thickness_2px alignment_tablet_default alignment_phone_default display_tablet_inherit display_phone_inherit " data-color="custom" data-using-bg="true" data-style="basic" data-display="block" data-alignment="left" data-text-color="custom" style="--nectar-text-color: #000000; --nectar-button-color: var(--nectar-custom); --nectar-icon-gap: 6px; "><h5 style="color: #000000;"><span class="link_wrap" style="padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px;"><a  class="link_text" role="button" href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/book-a-consultation/"><span class="text">Book A Consultation</span></a></span></h5></div>
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<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/06/22/toby-on-bbc-radio-bristol-v2/">Toby On BBC Radio Bristol with John Darvall</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>Could Your Hearing Loss Be Increasing Your Risk of Falls?</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/06/01/could-your-hearing-loss-be-increasing-your-risk-of-falls/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 12:36:46 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Ear Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hearing Test]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[audiologist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Clevedon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ear health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hearing care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Somerset]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Portishead]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[risk of fall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weston-super-Mare]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7273</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/06/01/could-your-hearing-loss-be-increasing-your-risk-of-falls/">Could Your Hearing Loss Be Increasing Your Risk of Falls?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<div id="fws_6a633a9a85f5d"  data-column-margin="default" data-midnight="dark"  class="wpb_row vc_row-fluid vc_row"  style="padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; "><div class="row-bg-wrap" data-bg-animation="none" data-bg-animation-delay="" data-bg-overlay="false"><div class="inner-wrap row-bg-layer" ><div class="row-bg viewport-desktop"  style=""></div></div></div><div class="row_col_wrap_12 col span_12 dark left">
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	<p><em>By Toby, Audiologist at Meadows &amp; Wood Hearing Care</em></p>
<h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Falls are one of the most serious health risks facing older adults in the UK. They can lead to broken bones, loss of confidence, reduced independence and, in the most serious cases, life-changing injury. What many people don’t realise is that hearing loss is one of the most significant and treatable contributing factors.</span></h4>
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	<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At Meadows &amp; Wood Hearing Care, it’s a connection we see regularly in clinic. Our patient health questionnaire asks specifically about dizziness, vertigo and balance as a routine part of every consultation, and those questions often open up conversations about falls that patients haven’t been able to have elsewhere.</span></p>
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	<h3><b>The research</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The evidence is substantial and growing. A landmark 2025 meta-analysis published in JAMA Otolaryngology reviewed 27 studies involving more than five million participants and found that people with hearing loss have a 51% greater likelihood of falling compared with those with normal hearing. Earlier research found the odds of falling were more than twice as high in older adults with untreated hearing loss.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Crucially, consistent hearing aid use has been associated with a 50% reduction in the odds of experiencing a fall. That’s not a minor benefit. For older adults and their families, it represents a meaningful shift in quality of life and long-term independence.</span></p>
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	<h3><b>Why does hearing loss increase falls risk?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are three well-established reasons for this connection.</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Environmental awareness. Sound gives us a constant stream of information about our surroundings. The crunch of gravel underfoot, the echo of a hard floor, the background noise that tells us a space is crowded. When hearing is reduced, we lose much of that spatial information, often without realising it.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spatial awareness. Hearing plays a significant role in our sense of where our body is in relation to the world around us. Reduced hearing can subtly affect our ability to judge distances and navigate unfamiliar spaces safely.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cognitive load. When the brain is working harder to process and interpret sound, it has fewer resources available for other tasks, including maintaining gait and balance. When hearing is treated effectively, that cognitive burden is reduced and the brain is free to manage both tasks well.</span></li>
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	<h3><b>What this means in practice</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At Meadows &amp; Wood, <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/hearing-aids/">our assessments</a> go beyond a straightforward hearing test. It’s something patients often tell us they hadn’t expected, but are glad we asked.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If a hearing assessment identifies a loss that can be addressed with hearing aids, the benefits extend well beyond clearer conversations. Improved spatial awareness, reduced cognitive load and a significantly lower falls risk are all part of the picture.</span></p>
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	<h3><b>Taking the first step</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’ve experienced unexplained dizziness, had a fall, or have been putting off addressing changes in your hearing, we’d encourage you to <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/book-a-consultation/">book a consultation</a> with our team. Our clinics in Weston-super-Mare, Portishead, Shirehampton and Clevedon are available by appointment, and our Worle clinic welcomes walk-in visitors too.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Call us on 01934 248426, we are here to help.</span></p>
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</div></div><p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/06/01/could-your-hearing-loss-be-increasing-your-risk-of-falls/">Could Your Hearing Loss Be Increasing Your Risk of Falls?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>Flying and Ear Pressure: How to Protect Your Ears When You Travel</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/05/20/flying-and-ear-pressure-protect-your-hearing/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 09:00:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Ear Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[airplane ear]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[audiologist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[barotrauma]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ear pressure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eustachian tube]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hearing care]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7187</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Do your ears hurt when you fly? You\\\'re not alone. Airplane ear, caused by rapid changes in cabin pressure affecting your Eustachian tube, is more common than many people realise. In this guide, our audiologists explain why it happens, who is most at risk, and the simple steps you can take to make flying more comfortable. If symptoms persist, we can help.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/05/20/flying-and-ear-pressure-protect-your-hearing/">Flying and Ear Pressure: How to Protect Your Ears When You Travel</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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	<h3>Many people notice discomfort, pressure, or muffled hearing during flights especially during landing. This happens because the air pressure around you changes faster than your ears can adjust. For most people it’s mild, but for some it can be very painful.</h3>
<p>This guide explains why it happens and what you can do to prevent it.</p>
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	<h4><strong>Why Your Ears Hurt on a Plane</strong></h4>
<p>Inside your ear is a small air‑filled space called the <strong>middle ear</strong>. It connects to the back of your nose via a tiny channel called the <strong>Eustachian tube</strong>. This tube’s job is to keep pressure equal on both sides of your eardrum.</p>
<p>During take‑off and landing, air pressure changes quickly. If the Eustachian tube can’t open easily, pressure builds and the eardrum is pulled inward, causing:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ear pressure or pain</li>
<li>Muffled hearing</li>
<li>Crackling or popping</li>
<li>Temporary dizziness</li>
</ul>
<p>This is sometimes referred to as airplane ear or barotrauma, and it is more common than many people realise.</p>
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	<h4>Who Is More Likely to Experience It?</h4>
<p>Some people are more prone to airplane ear than others. Those with hay fever, allergies, a cold, or sinus congestion often struggle because the Eustachian tube becomes inflamed or blocked. People with a history of ear infections, Eustachian tube dysfunction, or narrow Eustachian tubes may also find it harder to equalise pressure naturally. Even mild congestion can make a significant difference to how your ears cope in the air.</p>
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	<h4><strong><img decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-7274" src="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-300x300.png" alt="Flying and Ear Pressure tips for travelling with children" width="225" height="225" srcset="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-300x300.png 300w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-150x150.png 150w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-768x768.png 768w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-140x140.png 140w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-100x100.png 100w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-500x500.png 500w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-350x350.png 350w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children-800x800.png 800w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Flying-and-Ear-Pressure-tips-for-children.png 945w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" />A Note for Travelling with Children</strong></h4>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-&#091;1.7&#093;">Children’s Eustachian tubes are smaller and more easily blocked, so they can be particularly prone to ear discomfort during flights. Encouraging a drink or using a dummy during take-off and landing promotes swallowing and helps equalise pressure naturally. Chewing or swallowing during descent works well for older children. An Otovent balloon device, designed specifically for children, can be helpful if recommended by a healthcare professional.</p>
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	<h4><strong>How to Prevent Ear Pain When Flying</strong></h4>
<p>These simple steps can make flying much more comfortable:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>Start early, don’t wait for pain. </strong>Begin equalising your ears <strong>before</strong>&nbsp;the plane starts descending.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong> Swallow, yawn, or sip water regularly. </strong>These movements help the Eustachian tube open.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong> Try the Valsalva manoeuvre (gently). </strong>Pinch your nose, close your mouth, and blow gently until your ears pop. Repeat every few minutes during descent.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Consider a nasal decongestant spray. </strong>Using one 20–30 minutes before landing may help if you’re congested or prone to allergies. (Always follow the instructions on the product.)</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Stay awake for landing. </strong>If you’re asleep, you won’t swallow and pressure can build quickly.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong> Keep well hydrated. </strong>Dry air on planes can make the Eustachian tubes less responsive.</p>
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	<h4><strong>When to Seek Help</strong></h4>
<p>Most cases of airplane ear resolve on their own within a day or so, but it is worth seeking advice if symptoms persist. Contact a hearing specialist or your GP if you experience:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ear pain lasting more than 24–48 hours</li>
<li>Persistent muffled hearing</li>
<li>Fluid or discharge from the ear</li>
<li>Severe pain during every flight</li>
<li>Symptoms only on one side</li>
</ul>
<p>A simple hearing test and tympanogram can check how well the ears are equalising and rule out any underlying issues with middle ear function.</p>
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	<h4><strong>How Meadows &amp; Wood Can Help</strong></h4>
<p>At Meadows &amp; Wood Hearing Care, our audiologists can assess Eustachian tube function, investigate any underlying conditions that may be making flying uncomfortable, and offer personalised advice to help you travel with confidence. If flying has been causing you problems, or if you have noticed any changes in your hearing, we would be happy to help.</p>
<p><!-- /wp:post-content --><!-- wp:paragraph -->Call us on <strong>01934 248426</strong> or <a id="6066" href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/book-a-consultation/" type="page">book a consultation</a> online now to find out more.<!-- wp:paragraph -->&nbsp;</p>
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<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/05/20/flying-and-ear-pressure-protect-your-hearing/">Flying and Ear Pressure: How to Protect Your Ears When You Travel</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>Understanding Earwax: When to Worry and When to Leave It Alone</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/05/01/understanding-earwax-when-to-worry-when-to-leave-it-alone/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 09:00:32 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[audiologist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blocked ears]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Clevedon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ear health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[earwax removal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hearing care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[irrigation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[microsuction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Somerset]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Portishead]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weston-super-Mare]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7198</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/05/01/understanding-earwax-when-to-worry-when-to-leave-it-alone/">Understanding Earwax: When to Worry and When to Leave It Alone</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<div id="fws_6a633a9a91289"  data-column-margin="default" data-midnight="dark"  class="wpb_row vc_row-fluid vc_row"  style="padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; "><div class="row-bg-wrap" data-bg-animation="none" data-bg-animation-delay="" data-bg-overlay="false"><div class="inner-wrap row-bg-layer" ><div class="row-bg viewport-desktop"  style=""></div></div></div><div class="row_col_wrap_12 col span_12 dark left">
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	<p><em>By Claire, Practice Manager &amp; Hearing Care Assistant at Meadows &amp; Wood Hearing Care</em></p>
<h4>It might not be the most glamorous of topics, but earwax matters more than most people realise. It gets a bad reputation, but it is your ear’s own cleaning system. It traps dust and debris, protects the ear canal, and in most cases works its way out naturally. The ears are very good at looking after themselves.</h4>
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	<p><em>By Claire, Practice Manager &amp; Hearing Care Assistant at Meadows &amp; Wood Hearing Care</em></p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">
<p>It might not be the most glamorous of topics, but earwax matters more than most people realise. It gets a bad reputation, but it is your ear’s own cleaning system. It traps dust and debris, protects the ear canal, and in most cases works its way out naturally. The ears are very good at looking after themselves.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">
<p><strong>When should you leave it alone?</strong></p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">
<p>The rule of thumb is reassuringly simple: if your hearing is clear and your ears are comfortable, leave well alone. No itching, no sensation of blockage, no muffled sound? Your ears are doing exactly what they should. Earwax colour and texture vary considerably from person to person and have very little bearing on whether anything is wrong.</p>
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	<p><strong>Signs you may need help</strong></p>
<p>There are times when earwax needs a helping hand. If you experience any of the following, it is worth booking an appointment: muffled or reduced hearing that has come on gradually; a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear; tinnitus, whether ringing, buzzing or other sounds; itching or discomfort inside the ear canal; or a persistent sensation that something is blocking your ear. These are all common signs of a build-up that has compacted.</p>
<p><strong>Why DIY removal is risky</strong></p>
<p>Problems start when we interfere. Cotton buds, fingers, ear candles: all are notorious for pushing wax deeper into the ear canal, where it can compact and cause real difficulties. Blocked earwax is one of the most common causes of muffled hearing, tinnitus and that persistent feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear.</p>
<p>Both Toby and I see patients who have been struggling for weeks, having tried all sorts at home and often made things worse without realising. A quick appointment is usually all it takes to sort it out completely.</p>
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	<p><strong>Professional earwax removal at Meadows &amp; Wood</strong></p>
<p><!-- /wp:post-content --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->At Meadows &amp; Wood we use microsuction and irrigation: two safe, gentle and clinically approved techniques. Microsuction uses a fine suction probe to remove wax carefully without water, while irrigation uses a gentle flow of warm water to flush the ear canal clear. Your audiologist will advise which is most appropriate for you.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-7199 alignright" src="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Claire-doing-ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-150x150.png" alt="Claire carefully removing ear wax using microsuction" width="174" height="174" srcset="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Claire-doing-ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-150x150.png 150w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Claire-doing-ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-140x140.png 140w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Claire-doing-ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-100x100.png 100w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Claire-doing-ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-350x350.png 350w" sizes="(max-width: 174px) 100vw, 174px" />Qualifications matter as much as technique. Not every earwax removal provider has the same level of training, so it is always worth checking before you book. Our whole team is fully qualified, and we take that seriously.</p>
<p><!-- /wp:paragraph --><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->We see patients from across North Somerset and Bristol, with clinics in Weston-super-Mare, Portishead, Shirehampton, Clevedon and Worle.</p>
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	<p><strong>Some of the things we find</strong></p>
<p><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><strong><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-7200 alignright" src="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-150x150.png" alt="Ear wax removal by microsuction at Meadows &amp; Wood" width="174" height="174" srcset="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-150x150.png 150w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-140x140.png 140w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-100x100.png 100w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Ear-wax-removal-in-clinic-350x350.png 350w" sizes="(max-width: 174px) 100vw, 174px" /></strong></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><a id="5803" href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/earwax-removal/" type="page">Earwax removal</a> can throw up some unexpected surprises. Over the years we have found everything from glitter left over from hen nights to an earring back that had been missing for a full decade, and even a small fungal growth that looked remarkably like tiny daisies growing inside the ear canal. That last one needed a swift referral to the patient’s GP. Earwax, it turns out, can hide all sorts of secrets.<!-- /wp:paragraph --><!-- /wp:paragraph --><!-- /wp:paragraph --> </p>
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	<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><strong>Book an appointment</strong></p>
<p><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>
<p><!-- wp:paragraph -->If you have noticed muffled hearing, a blocked feeling or any discomfort in your ears, do not ignore it. Our friendly, fully qualified team is here to help. Call us on <strong>01934 248426</strong> or make an <a id="6066" href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/book-a-consultation/" type="page">appointment now online</a> at your nearest clinic. Home visits are also available for ear wax removal, please ask our team for details.</p>
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</div></div><p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/05/01/understanding-earwax-when-to-worry-when-to-leave-it-alone/">Understanding Earwax: When to Worry and When to Leave It Alone</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>Choir Singers and Hearing Aids: Don&#8217;t Let Hearing Loss Stop You Singing</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/04/22/hearing-aids-for-choir-singers-somerset/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:40:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Hearing Devices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[choir]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hearing aids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hearing loss]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[singing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[worle]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7179</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>A word for anyone who loves singing from Toby I want to say something specific to choir singers, because this comes up so often in...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/04/22/hearing-aids-for-choir-singers-somerset/">Choir Singers and Hearing Aids: Don&#8217;t Let Hearing Loss Stop You Singing</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
]]></description>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A word for anyone who loves singing from Toby</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">I want to say something specific to choir singers, because this comes up so often in our consultations. Don&#8217;t stop singing! Hearing loss shouldn&#8217;t stop you doing the things you love. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="810" height="810" src="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1.png" alt="hearing aids for choir singers" class="wp-image-7185" style="width:221px;height:auto" srcset="https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1.png 810w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1-300x300.png 300w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1-150x150.png 150w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1-768x768.png 768w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1-140x140.png 140w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1-100x100.png 100w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1-500x500.png 500w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1-350x350.png 350w, https://meadowswood.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Social-media-posts-2026-1-800x800.png 800w" sizes="(max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px" /></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The problem I hear most often is this: people are taking their hearing aids out during rehearsals. When everyone around them starts singing, the volume overwhelms their devices and causes distortion. It is deeply frustrating. And then when the conductor stops to give notes, the moment when you most need to hear, but the aids are out and you miss it entirely. Some people end up not going at all. That makes me sad, because choir is genuinely one of the best things you can do for yourself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why this happens — and why it doesn’t have to</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Cheaper or older hearing aids simply cannot handle sound levels above around 100 decibels. Think of it like this: the acoustic energy coming into the microphone is like electricity coming into a circuit. If too much energy arrives at once, the circuit is overwhelmed and what comes out is distorted noise rather than clear sound. A full choir in full voice generates exactly that kind of energy.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The hearing aids we fit at Meadows &amp; Wood are engineered for exactly this kind of environment. They process high-energy sound cleanly, so you can stand in the middle of a choir, hear every voice around you and every word from the conductor, and your aids stay exactly where they belong in your ears, doing their job.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Get back out there</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Getting back to choir, back to concerts, back to evenings that leave you feeling properly alive, that is what good hearing care is really about for me. It is not just about being able to hear. It is about being fully present in the things that matter to you. Music, community, connection. The kind of joy that is genuinely good for your health, from the inside out.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Local choirs worth exploring</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you’ve been thinking about giving choir a go, or getting back to one you’ve been missing, here are some brilliant local groups to check out. All of them welcome new members warmly and most need no experience whatsoever.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Worle Community Choir</strong> &#8211; Mixed voices, four-part harmony, every Thursday evening at St Marks Church, Worle. No auditions, no experience needed.  <a href="https://worlecommunitychoir.co.uk/">https://worlecommunitychoir.co.uk/</a></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Rock Choir Weston-super-Mare</strong> &#8211; Pop and rock hits in brilliant harmony, all ages welcome, led by Mike Aris. Free taster session available.  <a href="https://www.rockchoir.com/uk-singing-group/Weston-Super-Mare-Late">https://www.rockchoir.com/uk-singing-group/Weston-Super-Mare-Late</a></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Weston Choral Society</strong> &#8211; A four-part choral society with an ambitious repertoire, based in Weston-super-Mare.  <a href="https://www.westonchoralsociety.org.uk/">https://www.westonchoralsociety.org.uk/</a></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>North Somerset Good Afternoon Choir</strong> &#8211; Every Wednesday afternoon at Nailsea Methodist Church. Welcoming, fun and open to everyone.  <a href="https://www.goodafternoonchoir.org/north-somerset-gac.html">https://www.goodafternoonchoir.org/north-somerset-gac.html</a></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>South Somerset Good Afternoon Choir</strong> &#8211; Meets on Monday afternoons in Wincanton. Part of the wonderful Good Afternoon Choirs network.  <a href="https://www.goodafternoonchoir.org/">https://www.goodafternoonchoir.org/</a></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>OTM Bristol Community Choir </strong>&#8211; Tuesday evenings at Alma Church, Clifton. Eclectic repertoire, no auditions, one of Bristol’s most active community choirs.  <a href="https://www.outtheremusicbristol.co.uk/community-choirs/">https://www.outtheremusicbristol.co.uk/community-choirs/</a></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">These groups, and many others like them, do something genuinely important. Singing together is good for your mental health, your physical health, your social life and your overall wellbeing. The research on this has been strong for years.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If any of this resonates, please do come and have a chat with us. There is no pressure and no obligation, just a conversation about your hearing and your life, with someone who genuinely cares about both. Our clinics are in Worle, Weston-super-Mare, Portishead, Clevedon and Shirehampton.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/book-a-consultation/" type="page" id="6066">book a consultation</a> at any of our five clinics in Worle, Weston-super-Mare, Portishead, Clevedon or Shirehampton, call <strong>01934 248426</strong>. This spring&#8217;s concerts are waiting for you. This season’s concerts and choir rehearsals are waiting for you.</p>



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<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/04/22/hearing-aids-for-choir-singers-somerset/">Choir Singers and Hearing Aids: Don&#8217;t Let Hearing Loss Stop You Singing</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>Hear Every Note: Why This Spring’s Live Music Season Deserves Your Full Attention</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/04/01/hear-every-note-hearing-aids-live-music-choir/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:00:05 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Hearing Devices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Meadows & Wood news]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[choir]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hearing aids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[live music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Somerset]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Starkey]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wellbeing]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7169</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Hear Every Note: Why This Spring’s Live Music Season Deserves Your Full Attention Toby Meadows, founder of Meadows &#38; Wood Hearing Care, on modern hearing...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/04/01/hear-every-note-hearing-aids-live-music-choir/">Hear Every Note: Why This Spring’s Live Music Season Deserves Your Full Attention</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Hear Every Note: Why This Spring’s Live Music Season Deserves Your Full Attention</strong></h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>Toby Meadows, founder of Meadows &amp; Wood Hearing Care, on modern <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/hearing-aids/" type="page" id="5921">hearing aids</a>, local choirs and getting the most from live music this spring.</em></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Spring is one of my favourite times of year, and live music is a big part of why. Bristol Beacon has a wonderful season planning including the London Symphony Orchestra performing Elgar&#8217;s The Dream of Gerontius and other fabulous musical events, it will be a really special season! Across Somerset, our theatres and concert halls come alive. But I often hear from people for whom hearing loss has quietly taken some of that pleasure away. Concerts feel effortful. You miss the detail. You come home deflated. If that sounds familiar, I want you to know it doesn&#8217;t have to be that way.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph"><strong>&#8220;It&#8217;s not a hearing aid as much as a clearing aid.&#8221;</strong> <em>Alice Cooper, Starkey hearing aid wearer</em></p>



<p class="has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph">One of the brands we stock is Starkey, a firm favourite with clients who love music. Rock legend Alice Cooper has worn Starkey hearing aids for years and describes them perfectly, that moment when music sounds like music again is exactly what we see with our own clients.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This matters especially for choir singers, and we have some brilliant ones nearby. I hear it regularly: people removing their hearing aids mid-rehearsal because the volume of those around them causes older devices to distort. Then when the conductor stops to give notes, the aids are out and they cannot hear a word. Frustrating, and more than a little embarrassing. The hearing aids we recommend are built to handle exactly that environment, so you can stand in a full choir, hear everything naturally, and leave your aids exactly where they belong.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As an independent practice, we are not tied to any single manufacturer. We take the time to find the right <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/hearing-aids/" type="page" id="5921">hearing aid</a> for your life, and if live music or singing is part of that life, I genuinely enjoy that conversation. Come and see us.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/book-a-consultation/" type="page" id="6066">book a consultation</a> at any of our five clinics in Worle, Weston-super-Mare, Portishead, Clevedon or Shirehampton, call 01934 248426. This spring&#8217;s concerts are waiting for you. Pop in or give us a call on <strong>01934 248426</strong>.</p>



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<p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/04/01/hear-every-note-hearing-aids-live-music-choir/">Hear Every Note: Why This Spring’s Live Music Season Deserves Your Full Attention</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>Nature&#8217;s Remarkable Hearing: What a Praying Mantis Can Teach Us</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/03/01/remarkable-hearing/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 09:00:50 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Ear Health]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7014</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Spring is on its way, and with it comes warmer days and garden visitors, perhaps even some unexpected ones. Last autumn, praying mantises were spotted...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/03/01/remarkable-hearing/">Nature&#8217;s Remarkable Hearing: What a Praying Mantis Can Teach Us</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Spring is on its way, and with it comes warmer days and garden visitors, perhaps even some unexpected ones. Last autumn, praying mantises were spotted in Cornwall for the first time. With breeding populations already on the Isle of Wight and Channel Islands, it&#8217;s only a matter of time before these fascinating insects reach Somerset and Bristol.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">What makes the praying mantis so remarkable isn&#8217;t just its distinctive appearance, but where it hears from. Tucked in the centre of its chest sits a single ear, developed to detect the ultrasonic calls of hunting bats. When a mantis hears those high-frequency chirps whilst flying at night, it drops out of the sky to avoid becoming dinner.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Deep inside your inner ear lie thousands of microscopic hair cells topped with even tinier projections called stereocilia. When sound vibrations reach them, they bend, sending electrical signals to your brain. Unlike birds or fish, humans cannot regenerate these cells once damaged. Loud noise, age or certain medications can harm these fragile structures, leading to tinnitus or permanent hearing loss.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Whether it&#8217;s birdsong in the garden or conversations with loved ones, your hearing connects you to the world. Regular assessments and addressing concerns early make all the difference. If you&#8217;ve experience tinnitus or noticed changes in your hearing, it&#8217;s worth having a chat. Modern hearing technology offers natural sound quality and features that adapt to your environment.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This summer, you might even spot a praying mantis in your garden. If you do, take a moment to appreciate that single ear working away, and perhaps give a thought to your own remarkable hearing system. And don’t forget, we’re here to help you and your family with any concerns you have about your hearing. Pop in or give us a call on <strong>01934 248426</strong>.</p>



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</div>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/03/01/remarkable-hearing/">Nature&#8217;s Remarkable Hearing: What a Praying Mantis Can Teach Us</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>Living With Tinnitus: Why Love Means Listening</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/02/04/living-with-tinnitus-why-love-means-listening/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:32:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Ear Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tinnitus]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=7006</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>After a long cold winter, spending time with friends and family we love reminds us how much we cherish connection—conversations over dinner, quiet moments together,...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/02/04/living-with-tinnitus-why-love-means-listening/">Living With Tinnitus: Why Love Means Listening</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">After a long cold winter, spending time with friends and family we love reminds us how much we cherish connection—conversations over dinner, quiet moments together, shared laughter with friends. But what happens when an uninvited sound keeps interrupting those precious times?</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Tinnitus is one of those things you don&#8217;t really think about until it happens to you. Life hums along with its usual soundtrack—kettles boiling, birds in the garden, traffic on the A370—and then you notice something else. A ringing, buzzing, or whistling that no one else can hear. It&#8217;s like your ears have started their own little broadcast, and it won&#8217;t switch off.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For many, tinnitus comes and goes. For others, it sticks around like an uninvited guest. While it isn&#8217;t dangerous, it can be incredibly frustrating, affecting sleep, concentration, and mood. The tricky part? Tinnitus isn&#8217;t a condition itself—it&#8217;s a symptom, often linked to hearing loss, noise exposure, stress, or even earwax build-up.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">What gets overlooked is the emotional side. When you first notice it, panic sets in: &#8220;Will this be forever?&#8221; Those reactions are completely normal. The good news is that most people find it becomes far less intrusive over time. Your brain is brilliant at tuning out sounds once it realises they&#8217;re not a threat.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Here&#8217;s Where We Come In &#8211; at our clinics in Worle, Shirehampton, Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon and Portishead, we offer specialist tinnitus assessments and practical counselling. We check your hearing<br>thoroughly, explore the causes, and work with you on strategies that genuinely help—from sound therapy to lifestyle adjustments around sleep and stress. Even small changes can make a surprising difference. With the right support, that internal noise gets quieter, calmer, and far easier to live with.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This month, show yourself—or someone you love—some kindness. Tinnitus doesn&#8217;t have<br>to mean your world shrinks. Give us a call on <strong>01934 248426</strong> for a no-obligation chat about<br>how we can help.</p>



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<p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/02/04/living-with-tinnitus-why-love-means-listening/">Living With Tinnitus: Why Love Means Listening</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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		<title>AI Hearing Aids: A Genuinely Helpful Innovation</title>
		<link>https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/01/15/ai-hearing-aids/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Meadows+Wood Hearing Care]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 10:07:29 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Hearing Devices]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://meadowswood.co.uk/?p=6989</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The latest hearing aids are remarkably clever. Instead of you adjusting tiny buttons or fiddling with apps, these smart devices learn to do the work...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/01/15/ai-hearing-aids/">AI Hearing Aids: A Genuinely Helpful Innovation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The latest hearing aids are remarkably clever. Instead of you adjusting tiny buttons or fiddling with apps, these smart devices learn to do the work for you. Walk into a busy café? They automatically focus on your companion&#8217;s voice rather than the clatter of cups. Outside on a breezy day? They reduce wind noise so you can enjoy your conversation.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Think of them as your personal sound assistant, working quietly in the background whilst you get on with life. One of the biggest frustrations people tell us about is background noise making it hard to follow conversations. Modern AI technology recognizes speech patterns, so it can focus on the voices that matter most to you.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The connectivity is wonderful too. Whether it&#8217;s phone calls, your favourite radio programme, or the television, everything connects effortlessly. With new Auracast technology, you can even tune into public broadcasts at airports, theatres, or museums directly through your hearing aids. Some models now monitor health metrics too, offering peace of mind for you and your loved ones.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Let&#8217;s Have a Chat</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you&#8217;re curious about how modern hearing care could enhance your quality of life and happiness, we&#8217;d love to hear from you. Pop in for a no-obligation chat at our Worle clinic, or give us a call on <strong>01934 248426</strong>, our team are here to help make your 2026 your smartest year yet!</p>



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<p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk/2026/01/15/ai-hearing-aids/">AI Hearing Aids: A Genuinely Helpful Innovation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://meadowswood.co.uk">Meadows+Wood Hearing Care</a>.</p>
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