What to Do If You Think You Have Hearing Loss (or If Your Spouse Thinks You Do)

Hearing loss often creeps up gradually, which means you may not notice the changes right away. 

In fact, it’s often a partner, family member, or friend who first points out that you’re missing parts of conversations or turning up the TV a little too high.

 If you’ve started to wonder whether your hearing isn’t what it used to be—or your spouse has gently suggested the same—here’s what to do next.

Recognise the Signs

Common early signs of hearing loss include:

Struggling to follow conversations in busy places

Asking people to repeat themselves often

Feeling that others are mumbling

Turning the TV or radio up louder than those around you prefer

Finding phone calls more difficult to follow than before

If these sound familiar, it’s worth taking them seriously.

Talk About It Openly

If your spouse or family member has raised concerns, it can feel frustrating or even embarrassing. But remember, their perspective is valuable—they may be noticing things you don’t. 

Have an honest conversation without defensiveness. Hearing difficulties don’t just affect you; they affect those around you too.

Get a Hearing Check

The simplest way forward is to have your hearing tested. In the UK, you can:

See your GP – they may refer you for a hearing test with the NHS.

Book directly with an audiologist – many high street opticians and hearing centres offer free hearing checks.

Use online screening tools – these can give a rough indication, but they’re not a substitute for a professional test.

Don’t Delay

Hearing loss isn’t just about missing a few words. Left untreated, it can affect relationships, social confidence, and even mental health. 

The sooner you take action, the better your quality of life will be. Modern hearing aids are discreet, comfortable, and far more advanced than many people imagine.

Support Each Other

If it’s your spouse who’s struggling with hearing, patience and encouragement go a long way. Avoid nagging or shouting—stay calm, listen to their concerns, and offer to go with them to an appointment. Tackling the issue together can make the process less daunting.

The Bottom Line

Hearing changes are a natural part of life for many of us. Ignoring the signs won’t make them go away, but taking the first step towards a hearing test can open the door to clearer conversations and better connections.

If you think your hearing—or your partner’s—has declined, make that appointment today. It could transform not just your hearing, but your everyday life.

I have to admit that it took me a while to acknowledge that I was suffering from a mild hearing loss. The result of several years working as a technician in a foundry when I was very young. Even though I always wore hearing protectors.

Calderdale GPs Pioneer Innovative Approach to NHS Staff Wellness

Healthcare professionals across Calderdale are now being offered an exciting new opportunity to enhance their health and fitness by way of a groundbreaking workplace wellness initiative.

The innovative programme encourages staff to increase their physical activity levels through engaging team-based challenges and digital tracking technology.

September marked the start of Pennine GP Alliance’s inaugural wellbeing challenge, designed to reward staff who complete 15 minutes of daily exercise. 

After four weeks of competition, the highest-scoring team of employees will be crowned champions, after which participants will continue to be encouraged with similar gamified activity.

This pioneering programme is delivered by Active Teams and funded by Active Calderdale, addressing a critical local health challenge. 

Currently, one-third of adults in the Calderdale area do not engage in regular physical activity, significantly impacting their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

Healthcare professionals working within the Calder & Ryburn Primary Care Network will be the first to be offered access to Active Teams, with further Primary Care Networks in Calderdale following suit.

By investing in the wellness of those who care for our communities, this programme represents a significant step towards creating healthier workplaces and, ultimately, a healthier local population.

"Physical activity brings significant benefits to peoples' mental and physical health, but it isn’t a habit for everyone. We’re proud to support our staff’s wellbeing through this initiative and look forward to seeing how their experiences inspire patients. When healthcare staff make activity part of their lives, they can share its benefits in a more meaningful way," Hannah Davies, General Practice Physical Activity Champion at Pennine GP Alliance told That's Health.

“We need innovative approaches to support the NHS' shift from treatment to prevention. Services like Active Teams, which encourage people towards reaching healthy levels of physical activity through fun team competitions and challenges, are going to be an important piece of the puzzle. Many people are employed in sedentary roles and more employers should be considering preventative health measures like Active Teams, to increase staff health, wellbeing and productivity,” Nairn Robertson, Founder of Active Team added.

The initiative to promote fitness among front line NHS staff aligns with the government's strategy to start increasing physical activity levels nationwide. The approach prioritises healthcare workers on the frontlines of our health services, as detailed in the recent government whitepaper "Get Britain Working” and “Fit For The Future: 10 Year Health Plan for England”.

The Health Impact: Research demonstrates that just 22 minutes of moderate physical activity per day can deliver remarkable health benefits:

- Reducing stress and anxiety by up to 30%*

- Lowering the risk of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes by 40%**

- Minimising musculoskeletal problems, a leading cause of workplace absence across the UK***

Moderate activity is where your heart rate is raised, making you breathe harder and break a sweat, but so that you can still talk.

FACTFILE:-

Active Calderdale works with communities to make physical activity a normal part of everyday life. As part of the wider 'We’re All Active Calderdale' network, Active Calderdale helps promote movement, increase opportunities to be active, and encourage collaboration across sectors - particularly focusing on underrepresented or inactive groups. This collective effort brings wide-ranging benefits, including improved health and wellbeing, stronger social cohesion, and positive economic impact.

active.calderdale.gov.uk

The Benefits of Taking Royal Jelly

Royal jelly has been treasured for centuries as one of nature’s most powerful nutritional substances. 

Produced by worker bees, it is the exclusive food of the queen bee, allowing her to live up to 40 times longer than her hive companions. 

Today, royal jelly is widely used as a natural supplement and is often praised for its unique health-boosting properties.

What Is Royal Jelly?

Royal jelly is a creamy, nutrient-dense secretion made by honeybees. It is packed with proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 

Its special combination of nutrients is what fuels the queen bee’s remarkable size, fertility, and longevity – and why many people turn to it as a superfood.

Key Benefits of Royal Jelly

1. Supports the Immune System

Royal jelly contains antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that help the body defend itself against bacteria, viruses, and oxidative stress. Regular supplementation may strengthen immune function, helping you fight off colds and seasonal infections more effectively.

2. Boosts Energy and Reduces Fatigue

Thanks to its rich nutrient profile, royal jelly is thought to help reduce tiredness and improve vitality. Many people take it as a natural alternative to energy drinks or stimulants, providing a gentle lift without the jitters of caffeine.

3. Skin Health and Anti-Ageing

Royal jelly is a popular ingredient in skincare due to its ability to promote collagen production, hydration, and elasticity. Taken as a supplement, it may also support skin health from the inside out, helping to reduce fine lines and maintain a healthy glow.

4. Supports Hormonal Balance

Some studies suggest that royal jelly may play a role in balancing hormones, especially in women experiencing menopause. It may help with symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, and reduced bone density.

5. Brain and Cognitive Function

Royal jelly contains compounds that may protect brain cells and improve memory and concentration. Early research has linked it to improved cognitive performance, making it an interesting natural supplement for mental clarity.

6. Heart Health

By helping to regulate cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, royal jelly may contribute to better cardiovascular health. Its protective compounds support healthy circulation and may lower the risk of heart-related conditions.

How to Take Royal Jelly

Royal jelly is available in several forms, including fresh jelly, capsules, and powders. Fresh royal jelly is considered the most potent but must be refrigerated. Capsules and powders are more convenient for everyday use and travel.

It’s generally recommended to start with small amounts and increase gradually. As with any supplement, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before adding royal jelly to your routine, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or allergic to bee products.

A Natural Gift from the Hive

Royal jelly is more than just a bee product – it’s a nutrient powerhouse with potential benefits ranging from improved immunity to radiant skin. 

Whether you’re looking for an energy boost, support for healthy ageing, or simply want to enhance your wellbeing naturally, royal jelly could be a valuable addition to your daily routine.

Potassium Alum Deodorant Sticks: Do They Work and Are They Safe?

More and more people are switching from conventional deodorants to natural deodorant alternatives. 

One of the most popular choices is the potassium alum deodorant stick, a crystal-like mineral salt that has been used for centuries in skincare and hygiene. 

But does it actually work, and how safe is it to use every day?

What Is a Potassium Alum Deodorant Stick?

Potassium alum (also called potassium aluminium sulphate) is a naturally occurring mineral. In its deodorant form, it comes as a smooth crystal stick. To use it, you simply dampen the stick and apply it directly to clean underarms.

Unlike regular deodorants that mask odour with fragrance, potassium alum creates a natural barrier on the skin to slow down the growth of odour-causing bacteria.

How Does a Crystal Deodorant Stick Work?

A potassium alum stick doesn’t stop you sweating—it’s not an antiperspirant. Instead, it works in three main ways:

Natural odour control: It forms an invisible salt layer that reduces bacterial growth.

Allows natural sweating: You still perspire, but odour is kept under control.

Mild astringent effect: It can gently tighten pores, which may reduce dampness slightly.

Do Potassium Alum Deodorants Really Work?

The short answer: yes, for many people. But results vary depending on your body and lifestyle.

Benefits of Potassium Alum Deodorant Sticks

Long-lasting odour protection (often all day).

Fragrance-free—ideal for sensitive skin or those avoiding perfumes.

Very cost-effective—one stick can last up to a year.

Eco-friendly—many are sold plastic-free with minimal packaging.

Downsides to Be Aware Of

They don’t prevent sweating, so you may still feel damp.

Heavy sweaters might need to reapply in hot weather or after workouts.

Works best on freshly washed skin—less effective if applied after odour develops.

Is Potassium Alum Deodorant Safe?

One of the biggest questions people ask is: “Is potassium alum safe compared to aluminium in antiperspirants?”

Here’s what research shows:

Different aluminium form: Potassium alum crystals contain a larger, natural salt molecule that isn’t absorbed into the skin as easily as aluminium chlorohydrate (the form used in antiperspirants).

Low absorption risk: Studies suggest very little, if any, aluminium from potassium alum enters the body.

No added chemicals: Crystal deodorants are typically free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, and preservatives.

Possible mild irritation: A small number of users may notice dryness or stinging, especially if applied to broken skin.

For most people, potassium alum sticks are considered a safe and natural deodorant choice.

How Long Does a Crystal Deodorant Stick Last?

One of the biggest advantages of using a potassium alum stick is its longevity. With daily use, a single stick can last six months to a year—far longer than a conventional roll-on or spray. This makes it both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Final Thoughts: Should You Switch to a Potassium Alum Deodorant?

If you’re looking for a natural, fragrance-free deodorant that helps control odour without blocking sweat, potassium alum deodorant sticks are a great option. They are:

Safe for most people.

Eco-friendly and long-lasting.

Effective at odour control, though not sweat prevention.

They may not suit those who want to stay completely dry, but for everyday freshness with minimal ingredients, they’re a simple and sustainable choice.

How to Access Medical Treatment Without Going to the GP

When you’re feeling unwell, your first thought may be to book an appointment with your GP. 

But in the UK, there are several other ways to access medical advice and treatment without having to wait for a doctor’s appointment. 

These services are designed to ease pressure on GP surgeries while giving patients fast, reliable care. Here are the main options available:

1. NHS 111 – Round-the-Clock Advice

NHS 111 is a free helpline available 24/7, every day of the year. You can either call 111 or use the NHS 111 online service for advice.

What it offers:

Symptom checks and guidance on what to do next.

Direct referrals to out-of-hours GPs, urgent treatment centres, or even A&E if needed.

Prescriptions sent directly to your local pharmacy in certain cases.

This is an excellent first step if you’re unsure how serious your problem is or where to go.

2. Pharmacy First – Expert Help Close to Home

Pharmacists are highly trained medical professionals who can help with more than just prescriptions. Under the Pharmacy First service (recently expanded across England), many pharmacies can now diagnose and treat minor conditions without you needing to see a GP.

Common conditions treated include:

Ear infections (in children and adults).

Impetigo (skin infection).

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women.

Shingles, sinusitis, sore throats, and more.

Pharmacists can supply prescription-only medicines under this scheme, meaning you can often walk out with the treatment you need the same day.

3. NHS Walk-In Centres

NHS walk-in clinics (sometimes called urgent treatment centres) provide care for minor injuries and illnesses, usually without an appointment.

Typical conditions they deal with include:

Sprains and strains.

Cuts, wounds, and minor burns.

Rashes and infections.

Stomach upsets and vomiting.

These centres are especially useful if you can’t get a same-day GP appointment but need help quickly.

4. Emergency Medical Units (EMUs)

Emergency Medical Units are often found within hospitals but separate from A&E. They provide urgent care for patients who are unwell and need assessment but may not require admission to hospital.

Why use them?

You may be referred here by your GP or NHS 111.

They are staffed by specialist doctors and nurses.

They can carry out tests such as blood work, ECGs, and X-rays on-site.

They act as a bridge between GP care and full hospital admission, ensuring patients get the right level of care without unnecessary delays.

When to Go to A&E

While these alternatives are great for most everyday illnesses and injuries, A&E is still the place for life-threatening emergencies such as:

Chest pain or suspected heart attack.

Stroke symptoms.

Severe bleeding or head injuries.

Breathing difficulties.

Knowing your options means you don’t always have to wait for a GP appointment to get the treatment you need. Whether it’s calling NHS 111, using Pharmacy First, visiting a walk-in clinic, or being referred to an Emergency Medical Unit, the NHS has made it easier than ever to access the right care, at the right time.

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