You scheduled a hearing exam but you’re so busy it’s understandable that you would have forgotten about it. Luckily, you just received that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to get ready. So… what should you do?
While it might not require an all-night study session like in your academic days, a bit of preparation can make a substantial difference in maximizing the value of your appointment.
7 steps to prepare for your hearing exam
In order to be totally ready, use these 7 steps:
Record your symptoms
For every person across various situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Whenever you notice that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing issues, write it down. Are there certain times when you have a hard time hearing the television, for example? When you’re in crowded places like restaurants, is it hard for you to follow conversations? Write down these instances, along with the time and date, to supply your hearing specialist with valuable insights into your hearing challenges.
Hearing aids can help a lot
The more you know about hearing aid options, the simpler it will be for you to make informed choices at your appointment. Research different types of hearing aids, their features, and how they align with your preferences and lifestyle. When you are better informed, we will have an easier time discussing your options and adapting our recommendations to your particular needs.
Evaluate your medical history
Collect a comprehensive overview of your medical history to share with your hearing specialist. Include details such as previous surgeries, current medications, notable illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you use. Personalizing our treatment suggestions by identifying any factors that might be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic understanding of your health.
Use hearing protection
Make use of protective strategies to shield your hearing from damage, particularly in the days leading up to your appointment. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your test, so steer clear of environments with high noise levels, like concerts or construction sites. You will get a better comprehension of your hearing health and guarantee the accuracy of your hearing test by protecting your ears ahead of time.
Check your insurance coverage
Explore your health insurance coverage with regard to hearing tests and related services. By getting a heads-up on your coverage, you will be better able to answer any associated questions and avoid unexpected expenses. You may need some clarification so don’t be afraid to reach out to us or your insurance provider.
Have a friend go with you
While going to your appointment alone is totally fine, having a companion can provide several advantages. Bringing somebody with you can offer added support and perspective whether it’s a friend, family member, or caregiver. Perhaps you missed some significant piece of information or forgot something you were told and having someone with you can offer some additional support.
Be prepared for a discussion about results
Usually, you will get the results of a hearing test the same day, unlike lots of other medical exams. Be ready for an in-depth discussion when you get the results of your exam on the same day. Whether the outcome involves suggestions for hearing aids, lifestyle adjustments, or hearing protection strategies, be prepared to explore next steps in cooperation with your specialist.
By sticking with these seven essential steps, you can approach your hearing exams with confidence and ensure that you derive maximum benefit from your appointment.
It’s time to schedule a hearing test so give us a call!