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Frequently asked questions

A complete hearing assessment (Pure Tone Audiometry with report) takes approximately 45 minutes, including consultation, otoscopy, audiometry, and a full results discussion.

A complete hearing assessment (Pure Tone Audiometry with report) takes approximately 45 minutes, including consultation, otoscopy, audiometry, and a full results discussion.

No. You will listen to a series of soft tones through insert earphones in a sound-treated room and respond when you hear them. The procedure is entirely painless and non-invasive.

We strongly recommend appointments so we can give your visit our full clinical attention. WhatsApp us and we will usually fit you in the same week, often the same day for earwax removal.

Yes, we encourage it, especially for hearing assessment. Two pairs of ears in the consultation makes the technical conversation easier to absorb, and easier to discuss afterwards. The hearing aid trial can also allow both of you an opportunity to experience improved conversation through better hearing.

Arriving 5 to 10 minutes early is sufficient. The Adelphi has a clear lobby and lift access on the basement, ground, and Level 3.

There are three main types of hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss results from damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve — it is the most common due to aging, and is usually permanent, while it can typically be managed effectively with hearing aids. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is blocked from reaching the inner ear, often due to earwax, fluid, or middle-ear conditions, and is frequently treatable. Mixed hearing loss involves elements of both. Your audiologist will identify the type during a Pure Tone Audiometry test and explain what it means for treatment options.

SSNHL is a rapid loss of hearing in one ear, usually noticed immediately. It may be accompanied by a feeling of fullness in the ear, tinnitus, or imbalance. SSNHL can occur after a bout of upper respiratory tract infections such as a viral cold or flu, but can also happen without any symptoms. SSNHL is considered a medical emergency — outcomes are best when treatment is started within 72 hours. If you suspect SSNHL, please proceed to the nearest A&E immediately.

Yes. When the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged, the brain often compensates by generating its own sound — typically perceived as ringing, buzzing, or hissing. This is why tinnitus and hearing loss frequently appear together. Treating the underlying hearing loss with appropriately fitted hearing aids often reduces tinnitus perception, and several modern devices include built-in tinnitus relief features.

It depends on the cause. Conductive hearing loss is often reversible — for example, when caused by earwax, fluid, or a middle-ear infection. Sensorineural hearing loss cannot usually be cured, but it can be effectively managed with hearing aids or, in severe cases, cochlear implants. With the right support, most people with sensorineural loss continue to hear clearly and communicate easily.

Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) usually becomes noticeable after age 50, though early signs can appear from age 30 in those exposed to loud noise. Based on studies, up to 88% of Singaporeans over the age of 60 have some degree of hearing loss. Because the decline is gradual, many people don’t realise they’re affected, and it is the people around them such as their spouses or children who will notice it first.

While ageing itself cannot be reversed, several habits help protect hearing for longer:

  • Keep headphone volume below 50% of maximum.
  • Use ear protection such as ear muffs or ear plugs in loud environments (spin/zumba classes, concerts, construction sites, playing in a band).
  • Manage chronic conditions — diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol all affect inner-ear circulation.
  • Take ototoxic medications only under medical supervision.
  • Schedule regular hearing checks from age 60 onwards.

At any age, if you notice difficulty following conversation in noisy places, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, increasing TV volume above what others find comfortable, or persistent ringing in the ears. A baseline assessment is also worthwhile from age 60 onwards to track changes over time. Earlier detection allows simpler and more effective intervention.

Muffled hearing — the sensation of being underwater or wearing earplugs — can have many causes. Common ones include earwax build-up, middle-ear fluid from a cold or sinus infection, or a mild ear infection, all of which are usually treatable. More serious causes include sudden sensorineural hearing loss, chronic infection, or nerve damage. If muffled hearing comes on suddenly, please seek medical attention immediately.

Yes, temporarily. The Eustachian tube connects the sinuses to the middle ear, so sinus inflammation can disturb pressure regulation and cause ear fullness, pain, or muffled hearing. Mild cases ease within a few days; more severe cases may take a few weeks. If symptoms persist after the sinus infection has cleared, a hearing test can rule out underlying issues.

Ototoxicity refers to damage to the inner ear caused by certain medications or chemicals — including some chemotherapy drugs, aminoglycoside antibiotics, loop diuretics, and high doses of aspirin. Effects can include hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance issues, and are often irreversible. If you are on long-term medication and notice changes in your hearing, please flag it with both your prescribing doctor and contact us for a hearing test.

Yes, particularly children receiving long-term antibiotics for chronic infections or chemotherapy for cancer. Regular hearing monitoring is recommended throughout treatment so any changes can be detected early and the care team alerted.

Otosclerosis is abnormal bone growth in the middle ear that gradually fixes the stapes — one of the small bones that conduct sound — in place, reducing its movement. It typically causes slowly worsening conductive hearing loss, often beginning in one ear and progressing to the other. It is largely genetic and more common in women. Treatment options include hearing aids or, in some cases, stapes surgery performed by an ENT surgeon.

No. As its causes are primarily genetic rather than lifestyle-related, otosclerosis cannot be prevented. Early detection through regular hearing assessment does, however, allow for earlier management and better long-term outcomes.

Labyrinthitis is inflammation of the inner ear labyrinth, usually triggered by a viral or bacterial infection. It commonly produces vertigo, hearing loss in one ear, tinnitus, and nausea. Most cases resolve within one to two weeks, though full recovery can take up to six weeks. Persistent vertigo or significant hearing loss should be reviewed by an ENT doctor or audiologist.

The three terms are often used interchangeably but describe different sensations. Giddiness is a general feeling of light-headedness or unsteadiness. Dizziness is a broader symptom that can include light-headedness, imbalance, or a floating sensation. Vertigo is the specific sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning, and almost always points to an inner-ear or central nervous system cause such as BPPV, Ménière’s disease, or labyrinthitis. The distinction matters because the underlying conditions — and treatments — differ.

Stop what you are doing and sit or lie down until the sensation passes. If you cannot lie down, sit and lower your head between your knees. When you stand up, do so slowly and hold something for support. If the dizziness is caused by dehydration or low blood sugar, water and something sweet can help. If dizziness is severe, recurrent, or accompanied by other symptoms, please seek medical attention promptly.

See a doctor immediately if dizziness is sudden, severe, persistent, or unexplained — and especially if it appears alongside any of the following:

  • Sudden, severe headache
  • Sudden change in hearing
  • Double vision, slurred speech, or confusion
  • Chest pain, fainting, or irregular heartbeat
  • Facial numbness or weakness
  • Difficulty walking or persistent vomiting

These combinations can indicate a serious underlying condition that requires urgent evaluation.

Yes — balance and hearing share the same inner-ear and neural pathways, so the same conditions can affect both. Inner-ear infections, Ménière’s disease, ototoxic medication, and acoustic neuroma can each cause dizziness, hearing loss, and tinnitus together. If you experience two or more of these symptoms, a comprehensive audiology assessment can help identify whether they share an underlying cause.

We work with four trusted partner brands — Signia, Phonak, GN Resound and Starkey — selected for their technology, performance, and ongoing support. Recommendations are based on your hearing assessment and lifestyle requirements.

A 1.5-hour pre-fitting consultation that reviews your hearing assessment, listening environments, and lifestyle. We walk through suitable hearing device options based on your lifestyle needs, and trial the hearing aid in real life situations. The evaluation fee is fully refundable when hearing aids are subsequently purchased within 30 days.

Yes. Real Ear Measurement is an important tool in hearing aid fitting verification — ensuring the device is programmed precisely to your unique ear anatomy. REM is included as necessary with every hearing aid fitting at The Hearing Room.

Yes. Our reprogramming service supports Signia, Phonak, Starkey, and ReSound devices. The first reprogramming session is between S$150 to S$300 and includes consultation, Pure Tone Audiometry, handling fee, and fine-tuning. Subsequent reprogramming is S$150.

This is variable but most patients adjust within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent daily wear (>10hours per day). The brain needs time to relearn how to interpret amplified sound, and therefore the client needs to be disciplined in following the recommended wearing time. We provide regular follow-ups and aural rehabilitation support throughout the adjustment period.

Most modern hearing aids are sweat- and rain-resistant (IP68 rated), but they are not designed for swimming or showering. We will guide you on day-to-day care during your fitting.

Approximately 5 to 7 years on average with proper care and regular servicing. Battery life depends on the model, rechargeable hearing aids typically last a full day on a single charge.

All four brands are world-leading manufacturers. The differences come down to sound-processing approach, smartphone connectivity features, and the specific situations each one excels at. We discuss this in detail during your Hearing Aids Evaluation so the recommendation reflects your real-world needs.

Yes, in cases where hearing loss is the underlying cause. Many modern hearing aids include built-in tinnitus masking features. For some patients, simply amplifying ambient sound also reduces the perception of tinnitus. We would need to do a full hearing assessment to understand the issue, underlying causes and discuss this as part of tinnitus management strategies during consultation.

We recommend a clinical check every 6 to 12 months, including device cleaning, wax filter replacement if needed, and software updates. Daily home care (wiping with a soft cloth, drying overnight) is also important.

Yes. Out-of-warranty repairs are from S$400 per device. For routine servicing and minor adjustments on devices purchased elsewhere, our standard handling fee is S$50.

Yes. After your hearing assessment and Hearing Aids Evaluation, we can arrange a trial period, if necessary, with the recommended device so you can experience it in your real-world environments — work, home, family gatherings, restaurants. There is a refundable deposit required for a take home trial.

Modern hearing aids do considerably more than amplification. They use directional microphones, noise reduction, and increasingly AI-based processing to prioritise speech and reduce background noise — the goal is to reduce the cognitive effort of listening so that conversations, particularly in noisy environments, become less tiring and easier to follow. The improvement is most noticeable when devices are properly fitted by a professional clinician, regular follow-ups, and worn consistently.

Yes, most modern hearing aids from our clinic support direct streaming. Compatibility with iPhone is generally the most seamless via Made for iPhone (MFi). Android compatibility depends on whether the phone supports Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids (ASHA) or Bluetooth LE Audio — newer models from Samsung and Google generally work well. Other phone brands may experience intermittent performance. We’ll confirm compatibility with your specific phone during the evaluation.

We don’t recommend it. Hearing aids are medical devices that require accurate prescription based on your specific hearing profile, professional fitting, and Real Ear Measurement verification to deliver the benefit they are capable of. Online or over-the-counter devices typically lack this individual programming and ongoing fine-tuning, and most users end up under-using their device or returning it. More importantly, hearing aids require professional adjustment post-fitting to ensure the client derives the most benefit from it. You may also experience difficulty during warranty repair etc.

New hearing aids come with a manufacturer warranty of typically 2 to 4 years covering manufacturing defects. The warranty terms vary by brand and technology level — we’ll walk through the specifics for your chosen device at fitting.

Yes. The procedure is performed by a trained clinician under direct otoscopic visualisation, using a safe, non-invasive irrigation technique. It is significantly safer than self-cleaning with cotton buds, ear diggers, or over-the-counter syringes.

No. The procedure is painless. Most appointments are completed in 20 minutes and many patients are surprised at how comfortable and smooth it is.

For most healthy ears, there is NO NEED to clean your ears beyond washing the exterior (pinna) with water and soap. This is because the ear is naturally self-cleaning — wax migrates outward on its own.. Seek medical attention only when symptoms appear — for example, a blocked feeling, reduced hearing, or tinnitus. We will do an otoscopy check to see the condition of the ear and will recommend irrigation only when necessary.

We definitely advise AGAINST it. Most reliable cotton bud brands’ first warning is “Do not insert swab into ear canal”. Cotton buds tend to push wax further into the ear canal and can damage the eardrum. The ear is naturally self-cleaning — wax migrates outward on its own. If wax is causing symptoms, please come in for an assessment.

The S$100 fee covers a 20-minute appointment, the S$25 otoscopy and consultation fee, the procedure itself, and a post-procedure review. The price is the same whether one or both ears require treatment.

Earwax removal is often available same-day, and almost always within the same week. WhatsApp us to confirm availability.

It is recommended to start at least 2 days of OTC ear drops from any reputable pharmacy before the procedure. This softens the earwax for easier removal. We can advise during your booking call or WhatsApp consultation.

No. Clinical research shows ear candles don’t actually remove ear wax and pose a real risk of burns and wax dripping into the canal. We strongly advise against undergoing ear candling under any circumstances.

In such situations, we would recommend an appropriate professional to conduct microsuction for you as irrigation is not recommended for clients with a perforated eardrum or ear infection.

In most cases, yes — patients describe an immediate improvement once the wax is cleared. If hearing remains reduced after wax removal, we will recommend a Pure Tone Audiometry test to investigate further.

Our published fees reflect the time, training, and clinical equipment involved in each appointment. They allow each consultation to remain a comprehensive clinical service, with the audiologist’s full attention, and a printed clinical report regardless of outcome. This is also aligned with our policy to never hard sell any other services or devices unnecessarily.

Yes, the S$100 Hearing Aids Evaluation fee is fully refundable when hearing aids are subsequently purchased within 30 days of the evaluation.

Hearing aids are not currently Medisave-claimable in Singapore. Some private insurance plans may cover diagnostic services — we can provide an itemised receipt for claims. We recommend checking with your insurer first.

Yes. We offer 0% interest installment plans up to 12 months for UOB and OCBC credit cards. Please ask us during your fitting consultation.

Yes, for workplace hearing health programmes, screening initiatives, or group consultations, please contact us directly to discuss customised pricing.

We accept cash, NETS, PayNow, and  major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and JCB). Interest-free installment plans are available for UOB and OCBC credit card holders.

No. Our complete price list is published openly on our website and at the clinic. All fees are quoted upfront, including hearing aid devices, which are quoted individually at fitting based on the model and technology level selected. Hearing aid pricing also follows strictly the recommended retail price by manufacturers. We also do not charge GST.

Yes. The In-Home Consultation is S$200 (versus S$25 In-Clinic), reflecting the additional time, travel, and portable equipment required for a home visit. Suitable for patients with mobility constraints.

We can service hearing aids from Signia, Phonak, Starkey, and ReSoun, only for devices purchased from a clinic, not online. A S$50 handling fee applies for non-Hearing Room devices, plus the cost of any parts or reprogramming as necessary. All costs will be informed to client before proceeding.

We are located at 1 Coleman Street, #03-21, The Adelphi, Singapore 179803. We are a three-minute walk from City Hall MRT (Exit B or D).

Yes, basement parking is available at The Adelphi (B4 onwards for public parking). Take the lift to Level 3, exit the lobby and turn right, then turn left and you will find us at unit #03-21.

Alight at City Hall MRT (East-West Line EW13 / North-South Line NS25), take Exit B or D, and walk approximately 200 metres towards the National Gallery. The Adelphi will be on your right.

Multiple bus stops are within walking distance on North Bridge Road and Stamford Road. Services include 7, 14, 16, 36, 77, 124, 131, 162, 167, 174, and 700.

Monday to Friday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Sunday and Public Holidays: Closed. Appointments are strongly encouraged so that we can attend to you with our full attention.

Yes, Saturday appointments are available between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. We do not open on Sundays or Public Holidays.

Yes. Lift access is available from the basement carpark and ground floor. Our consultation rooms are designed for wheelchair access.

Absolutely — in fact,  we encourage it. Having a family member present helps with absorbing the technical conversation and discussing the results afterwards. It also helps the patient understand the benefits of better hearing.

Yes. Please give us at least 24 hours’ notice where possible so we can offer the slot to another patient. Cancel or reschedule via WhatsApp at +65 9726 0919.

Send a message via WhatsApp (+65 9726 0919) or email enquiry@thehearingroom.com.sg. We respond during clinic hours, usually within one business hour.

We follow current Ministry of Health guidelines. Please reschedule if you are unwell on the day of your appointment, we are happy to accommodate.

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