You scheduled a hearing test but you’re so busy it’s understandable that you would have forgotten about it. Thankfully, you just received that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to get ready. But what kind of preparation should you do?
While it may not require an all-night study session like in your scholastic days, a bit of preparation can make a considerable difference in maximizing the benefits of your appointment.
7 steps to prepare for your hearing exam
In order to be completely ready, use these 7 steps:
Write down your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everyone and across a variety of situations. Whenever you observe that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing troubles, write it down. For example, do you struggle to hear the television, especially at certain volumes or times of the day? When you’re in crowded settings like restaurants, is it difficult for you to follow conversations? Write down these situations, along with the time and date, to provide your hearing specialist with useful insights into your hearing difficulties.
Hearing aids can help a lot
The more you understand about hearing aid options, the easier it will be for you to make informed decisions at your appointment. Do some research about how the various types of hearing aids might work with your needs and lifestyle. Being well-informed about available options can expedite discussions with your specialist and ensure that any recommendations are tailored to your needs.
Review your medical history
Gather a comprehensive outline of your medical history to share with your hearing specialist. Noteworthy illnesses, previous surgeries, current medications, and any medical devices you use are all details that could be important. This holistic snapshot of your health can help in determining potential factors contributing to your hearing loss and guide personalized treatment recommendations.
Use ear protection
Use protective measures to shield your hearing from harm, particularly in the days prior up to your appointment. Steer clear of things like construction sites and rock concerts where the noise levels are especially high because exposure can skew the results of your exam. By protecting your hearing leading up to the test, you help ensure the accuracy of the results and get a clear understanding of your hearing health.
Check your insurance coverage
Explore your health insurance coverage regarding hearing assessments and related services. By getting a heads-up on your coverage, you will be better able to answer any associated questions and avoid unexpected costs. You might need some clarification so don’t be afraid to reach out to us or your insurance provider.
Bring a companion
While going to your appointment alone is totally fine, having a companion can offer several benefits. Whether it’s a member of the family, friend, or caregiver, bringing someone along can provide extra support and perspective during the consultation. Maybe you missed some essential piece of information or forgot something you were told and having somebody with you can give some additional support.
Be prepared for a discussion about results
Unlike some medical exams where you might have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing test results are usually available right away. Be ready for an in-depth discussion when you receive the results of your test on the same day. We might encourage solutions like hearing protection strategies, lifestyle changes, or the potential of getting hearing aids.
By sticking with these seven crucial steps, you can approach your hearing test with confidence and guarantee that you get maximum benefit from your appointment.
If you haven’t scheduled your hearing exam yet, contact us today to get your appointment on the books.
