Hearing loss is a significant concern for personnel in the UK armed forces. The nature of military activities exposes individuals to a variety of risks that can adversely affect their hearing. 

Here, we will outline the primary causes of hearing loss in the UK armed forces. Additionally, we will provide guidance on what individuals suffering from hearing loss due to military service can do to cope and adapt to their new circumstances.

Causes of Hearing Loss in the UK Armed Forces

There are a range of factors that can impact personnel’s hearing, here are some of the main causes of hearing loss in the UK armed forces:

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL)

One of the leading causes of hearing loss in the armed forces is exposure to loud and potentially damaging noises. Military personnel are exposed to various loud noises, such as gunfire, explosions, aircraft, and heavy machinery. These sources can generate noise levels exceeding 140 decibels (dB), significantly higher than the recommended safe exposure limit of 85 dB.

Immediate acoustic trauma

Acoustic trauma occurs when an individual experiences a single, extremely loud noise or a blast that causes immediate and often irreversible damage to the inner ear. Examples include explosions, sudden loud blasts, and even gunfire near the ear. Such incidents can rupture the eardrum or damage the delicate hair cells within the cochlea, leading to permanent hearing loss.

Infections and injuries

Infections, such as otitis media (middle ear infection), can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss if left untreated. Additionally, injuries sustained during military service, such as head trauma, can also lead to hearing loss.

Coping with Hearing Loss During and After Military Service

Medical evaluation and rehabilitation

If you suspect you have hearing loss, the first step is to consult your medical officer for a thorough evaluation. They can diagnose the extent of your hearing loss, identify the cause, and recommend appropriate treatment or rehabilitation options. Treatment may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices.

Access support services

There are various support services and organisations dedicated to helping Armed Forces personnel and veterans with hearing loss. The Royal British Legion, Help for Heroes, and SSAFA (the Armed Forces charity) provide financial assistance, counselling and guidance on adapting to life with hearing loss. Additionally, the Veterans Hearing Fund (VHF) offers support to veterans with hearing loss, providing funding for hearing aids and other equipment not available through the NHS.

Utilise technology

Advancements in day-to-day technology have led to the development of various devices and applications that can help individuals with hearing loss. Smartphone apps can provide real-time captions for phone calls, transcribe speech to text, or amplify sounds to make them more audible. Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids can be connected directly to phones, TVs, and other devices, allowing for better sound quality and improved communication.

Join support groups

Connecting with others who are experiencing similar challenges can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. There are numerous support groups, both online and in-person, where individuals with hearing loss can share their experiences, coping strategies, and offer encouragement to one another. The British Tinnitus Association and Action on Hearing Loss are two UK-based organisations that provide resources and support for people with hearing loss and tinnitus.