Keeping an Ear Symptom Diary Before an Examination

It can be hard to remember exactly when an ear started feeling blocked or which conversations have become difficult. A short ear symptom diary gives you something to refer to during an examination. A notebook or a note on your phone is enough.

Get urgent GP advice or help from NHS 111 if hearing loss starts suddenly, worsens over days or weeks, or happens with earache or discharge. Seek that help before waiting for a routine appointment or collecting more diary entries. Read the NHS guidance on hearing loss.

What to record in an ear symptom diary

Start with the change that made you think about arranging an appointment. Write what you noticed and roughly when it started. You can describe one ear, both ears or uncertainty about which is affected. If you cannot remember the date, say it is approximate.

For example, you might note a blocked feeling, trouble following a conversation or a sound you have found harder to hear. Describe your experience in your own words. The NHS appointment checklist suggests making notes about symptoms, when they started and what seems to change them.

Include everyday listening examples

Think about a recent situation that matters to you. Was it a family meal, a telephone call or watching television? Note whether the room was quiet or noisy and what you found difficult.

Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust's hearing assessment information encourages people to consider specific listening situations and bring their notes. These examples can help you explain your priorities.

Illustrative diary entry

“On Monday evening I kept asking for words to be repeated during dinner. The television was on in the same room. I would like to discuss why conversations are becoming harder to follow.”

Add ear history and things you have tried

Keep a separate note of information you want to mention, such as previous ear treatment, surgery, hearing aids or ear drops you have used. Write down the product name and when you used it, if known. If you have questions about medicines, bring your current list.

RNID's guide to an audiology appointment explains that the discussion includes hearing difficulties, medical history and everyday listening. Your notes can help you remember what to raise.

Choose a few questions to take with you

Write the questions you most want answered near the top of your note. You might want to ask what an examination involves, how findings will be explained or what the next step could be. Ask the booking team about communication or access needs before the visit.

If a relative is helping, agree what you would like them to add. Our guide to carer support at an ear examination explains ways to prepare together.

Bring your notes to the ear appointment

Tell the clinician which concern you would like to discuss first. Use the diary as a reminder, then ask for anything unclear to be explained. Before the discussion ends, note the agreed next step and who to contact with questions.

For routine care, read about a home ear examination and earwax removal where suitable or a home hearing assessment. These are different appointments, so explain your concern when asking which visit to arrange.