You’re a fairly busy person, so it’s reasonable that you totally forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. Thankfully, you just got that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to prepare. But what type of preparation should you do?
While it might not require an all-night study session like in your scholastic days, a bit of preparation can make a considerable difference in maximizing the value of your appointment.
Prepare for your hearing test with these 7 tips
In order to be completely prepared, use these 7 steps:
Record your symptoms
For every person across many situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Take some time to write down when you observe your hearing challenges the most. For instance, do you struggle to hear the television, especially at certain volumes or times of the day? Are conversations hard to follow in crowded places like restaurants? If you record these situations, it will help us get a better look into your specific hearing situation.
Hearing aids can help a lot
The more you understand about hearing aid options, the simpler it will be for you to make informed decisions at your appointment. Do some research about how the different types of hearing aids may 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.
Evaluate your medical history
Gather a comprehensive outline of your medical history to share with your hearing specialist. Include details like past surgeries, current medications, notable illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you use. Personalizing our treatment suggestions by determining any factors that may be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic picture of your health.
Use hearing protection
Make use of protective strategies to protect your hearing from damage, particularly in the days leading up to your exam. Avoid 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 before the test, you help ensure the accuracy of the results and obtain a clear comprehension of your hearing health.
Check your insurance coverage
Check to see if your insurance covers hearing services. By getting a heads-up on your coverage, you will be better able to answer any related questions and avoid unexpected expenses. You might need some clarification so don’t be afraid to reach out to us or your insurance provider.
Have a friend go with you
You can go to your appointment alone but if you bring a friend it can be very helpful. Bringing somebody with you can offer extra support and perspective whether it’s a friend, family member, or caregiver. They can help remember important information discussed during the appointment and give insights into your hearing experiences that you may not have noted yourself.
Be ready for a discussion about results
Unlike some medical exams where you might have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing exam results are generally available right away. Prepare yourself mentally to obtain these results and engage in a meaningful conversation with us about their ramifications. We may 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 ensure that you get maximum benefit from your appointment.
It’s time to schedule a hearing exam so give us a call!