You scheduled a hearing exam but you’re so busy it’s understandable that you would have forgotten about it. It’s a good thing you got a text from the clinic reminding you in time for you to prepare. So… what should you do?
While it might not call for an all-night study session like in your academic 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
Here are seven significant strategies to ensure you’re fully ready:
Document your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everybody and across a variety of situations. Take some time to write down when you notice your hearing challenges the most. Are there specific times when you have a difficult time hearing the television, for example? Are conversations challenging to follow in crowded settings such as restaurants? Write down these instances, along with the time and date, to supply your hearing specialist with valuable insights into your hearing difficulties.
Hearing aids can be really helpful
The more you know about hearing aid options, the simpler it will be for you to make informed choices at your appointment. Do some research about how the various models 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 suggestions are tailored to your needs.
Assess your medical history
Share the detailed overview of your medical history that you previously collected. Include details like past surgeries, current medications, notable illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you use. This holistic snapshot of your health can aid in pinpointing potential factors contributing to your hearing loss and guide individualized treatment recommendations.
Use ear protection
Make use of protective strategies to shield your hearing from damage, particularly in the days prior up to your exam. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your exam, so steer clear of environments with high noise levels, such as concerts or construction sites. You will get a better comprehension of your hearing health and guarantee the accuracy of your hearing exam by protecting your ears ahead of time.
Look into your insurance
Explore your health insurance coverage regarding hearing assessments and related services. Knowing the level of your coverage beforehand can help you avoid unexpected costs and navigate any insurance-related questions with confidence. You may need some clarification so don’t be afraid to reach out to us or your insurance provider.
Bring along a companion
While attending your appointment by yourself is totally fine, having a companion can offer a number of advantages. Bringing somebody with you can provide added 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 might not have noted yourself.
Be ready for a talk about results
Normally, you will get the results of a hearing test the same day, unlike many other medical tests. Prepare yourself mentally to obtain these results and engage in a meaningful conversation with us about their ramifications. We might encourage solutions like hearing protection strategies, lifestyle modifications, or the potential of getting hearing aids.
You will get maximum benefit from your appointment and you will come in with confidence if you follow these seven steps.
If you haven’t scheduled your hearing exam yet, contact us today to get your appointment on the books.