Thanks ((((((((((((( everyone )))))))))))))) for your support. I know it's not exactly life-changing but it is a bit hard to adjust to the thought. However since I won't be getting any for up to four months (or more, knowing the NHS) I have quite a bit of time to get used to the idea...

Thanks for pointing out the consequences of wearing hearing aids for too long, myself. I suppose they might also mention that when the time comes for them to fit them (but then, they might not). I'm glad they've allowed you to hear so much better throughout the years. It makes me feel fortunate to live in a time when they are available... and the NHS is giving them to me free (£5000 worth I think).

I don't actually think they know what the hearing loss is caused by, the audiologist said something about it might have been caused by a virus in childhood but I think he said that to just give me some reason. He told me that the auditory nerve which interprets sounds and sends them to the brain would be damaged, and both ears are equally affected. The rest of both my ears are fine and undamaged. I have noticed for a few years that my hearing hasn't been brilliant but I just accepted that it wasn't as good as other people's. Then more recently I began to question it and that's why I went to the audiologist.

You're quite right Jan that other ppl my age wear them, I've noticed them myself and they are discrete and besides, my hair will hide them. They should hopefully improve what I *do* hear.

Sky, I'm not sure if there are Deaf Services Bureaux around here (in the UK) but there are various websites which are useful to read.

Again, thanks everyone for replying, it does make me feel better.