You’re a fairly busy individual, so it’s reasonable that you totally forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. It’s a good thing you received a text from the clinic reminding you in time for you to prepare. So… what 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.
7 steps to prepare for your hearing test
In order to be fully prepared, follow these 7 steps:
Document your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everybody and across a variety of situations. Whenever you detect that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing troubles, write it down. Are there specific times when you have a hard time hearing the television, for example? When you’re in crowded locations like restaurants, is it difficult for you to follow conversations? If you record these situations, it will help us have a deeper look into your particular hearing situation.
Hearing aids can help a lot
Understanding the landscape of hearing aids can empower you to make educated decisions during the course of 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 suggestions are personalized to your needs.
Assess your medical history
Share the comprehensive outline of your medical history that you previously collected. Include details like previous surgeries, current medications, notable illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you utilize. Individualizing 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.
Utilize hearing protection
In the days prior to your hearing exam, take proactive steps to protect your ears from loud noises. Exposure to too much noise can skew the results of your test, so avoid environments with high noise levels, such as concerts or construction sites. You will get a better understanding of your hearing health and guarantee the accuracy of your hearing exam by protecting your ears ahead of time.
Look into your insurance
Find out if your insurance covers hearing services. Understanding the level of your coverage beforehand can help you avoid unforeseen costs and navigate any insurance-related queries with confidence. If you’re unsure about your coverage, think about contacting your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Bring a companion
You can go to your appointment alone but if you bring a friend it can be really helpful. Bringing someone with you can provide added support and perspective whether it’s a friend, family member, or caregiver. Maybe you missed some significant piece of information or forgot something you were told and having someone with you can provide some added support.
Anticipate results discussion
Unlike some medical tests where you might have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing test results are usually available right away. Prepare yourself mentally to obtain these results and participate in a meaningful discussion with us about their implications. We might encourage solutions like hearing protection tips, lifestyle modifications, or the potential of getting hearing aids.
By following these seven crucial steps, you can approach your hearing exams with confidence and ensure that you get maximum benefit from your appointment.
If you haven’t scheduled your hearing test yet, give us a call today to get your appointment on the books.