You’re a pretty 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. 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 considerable difference in maximizing the benefits of your appointment.
Prepare for your hearing test with these 7 tips
In order to be completely ready, use these 7 steps:
Document your symptoms
For every individual across various situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Take some time to jot down when you notice your hearing difficulties the most. For example, do you struggle to hear the television, particularly at certain volumes or times of the day? When you’re in crowded settings like restaurants, is it difficult for you to follow conversations? If you take note of these instances, it will help us get a better look into your particular hearing situation.
Hearing aids can help a lot
Understanding the landscape of hearing aids can enable you to make informed choices during the course of your appointment. Do some research about how the different types of hearing aids might work with your needs and lifestyle. Being well-informed about available options can clarify discussions with your specialist and make sure that any recommendations are personalized to your needs.
Assess your medical history
Collect a comprehensive outline of your medical history to share with your hearing specialist. Include details like previous surgeries, current medications, noteworthy illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you use. Individualizing 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.
Protect your ears
Use protective strategies to safeguard your hearing from harm, especially in the days prior up to your exam. Steer clear of things like construction sites and rock concerts where the volume levels are particularly high because exposure can skew the results of your exam. By protecting your hearing leading up to the test, you help guarantee the accuracy of the results and get a clear comprehension of your hearing health.
Check your insurance coverage
Find out if your insurance covers hearing services. By getting a heads-up on your coverage, you will be better able to answer any associated questions and avoid unexpected expenses. If you’re uncertain about your coverage, think about contacting your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Bring a companion
You can come to your appointment by yourself but if you bring a friend it can be very advantageous. Bringing somebody with you can provide added support and perspective whether it’s a friend, family member, or caregiver. They can help recall important information discussed during the appointment and give insights into your hearing experiences that you might not have noticed yourself.
Be prepared for a conversation about results
Unlike some medical exams where you might have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing exam results are generally available immediately. Be prepared for an in-depth conversation when you get the results of your exam on the same day. We may encourage solutions like hearing protection tips, lifestyle modifications, or the potential of getting hearing aids.
By following these seven essential steps, you can approach your hearing exams 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!
