Hard of hearing

What an unsociable affliction being deaf can be, even if only temporary. I'm not completely deaf, but am having to strain to hear what others are saying at present. Hoping not to have my good ear syringed, as the other one isn't working too well, but if the oil doesn't solve problem may have to go down that route. How hard it must be for those with this difficulty permanently. Not to hear music, or birdsong, apart from conversation. Just think myself lucky.