You’re a rather busy person, so it’s understandable that you completely 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 prepare. But what kind of preparation 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 benefits of your appointment.
7 steps to get ready for your hearing exam
In order to be completely ready, follow these 7 steps:
Take note of your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everybody and across various situations. Whenever you observe that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing problems, write it down. Are there certain times when you have a difficult time hearing the television, for instance? Are conversations difficult to follow in crowded settings like restaurants? If you record these instances, it will help us get a better look into your particular hearing situation.
Hearing aids can help a lot
The more you understand about hearing aid options, the easier it will be for you to make informed choices at your appointment. Research different models of hearing aids, their features, and how they align with your needs and lifestyle. Being knowledgeable about available options can clarify discussions with your specialist and make sure that any suggestions are tailored to your needs.
Review your medical history
Collect a detailed overview of your medical history to share with your hearing specialist. Notable illnesses, past surgeries, current medications, and any medical devices you utilize are all details that may be significant. Individualizing our treatment recommendations by determining any factors that might be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic understanding of your health.
Use hearing protection
Make use of protective strategies to protect your hearing from damage, particularly in the days prior up to your appointment. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your test, so steer clear of environments with high noise levels, such as concerts or construction sites. By safeguarding 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 related questions and avoid unexpected costs. You might need some clarification so don’t be afraid to reach out to us or your insurance provider.
Have a friend accompany you
While going to your appointment alone is totally fine, having a companion can provide several benefits. Bringing someone with you can offer extra 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 additional support.
Expect results discussion
Usually, you will get the results of a hearing exam right away, unlike many other medical exams. Prepare yourself mentally to receive these results and engage in a meaningful discussion with us about their ramifications. We might recommend solutions such as 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!