You’re a rather busy person, so it’s reasonable that you totally forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. It’s a good thing you got a text from the clinic reminding you in time for you to get ready. But what kind of preparation should you do?
While it may not call for 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.
Prepare for your hearing exam with these 7 tips
In order to be completely ready, use these 7 steps:
Take note of your symptoms
For every person across many 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, especially at certain volumes or times of the day? Are conversations challenging to follow in crowded settings such as restaurants? Write down these situations, 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 will work with your needs and lifestyle. Being knowledgeable about available options can expedite discussions with your specialist and ensure that any recommendations are tailored to your needs.
Assess your medical history
Gather a comprehensive outline of your medical history to share with your hearing specialist. Include details such as previous surgeries, current medications, noteworthy illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you use. This holistic picture of your health can help in identifying potential factors contributing to your hearing loss and guide individualized treatment recommendations.
Protect your ears
Use protective strategies to safeguard your hearing from harm, particularly in the days prior up to your appointment. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your exam, so avoid environments with high noise levels, like concerts or construction sites. By safeguarding your hearing before the test, you help guarantee the accuracy of the results and obtain a clear comprehension of your hearing health.
Look into your insurance
Look into your health insurance coverage regarding hearing assessments and related services. By getting a heads-up on your coverage, you will be better able to answer any associated questions and avoid surprise costs. If you’re unsure about your coverage, think about reaching out to your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Have a friend accompany you
While going to your appointment alone is perfectly fine, having a companion can provide several benefits. Whether it’s a member of the family, friend, or caregiver, bringing somebody along can provide additional support and perspective during the consultation. Maybe you missed some essential piece of information or forgot something you were told and having someone with you can give some added support.
Expect results discussion
Usually, you will get the results of a hearing test right away, unlike many other medical tests. Be ready for an in-depth conversation when you receive 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 investigate next steps collaboratively with your specialist.
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 test yet, contact us today to get your appointment on the books.