You scheduled a hearing exam but you’re so busy it’s reasonable 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 substantial difference in maximizing the benefits of your appointment.
7 steps to get ready for your hearing test
Here are seven essential strategies to make sure you’re completely ready:
Document your symptoms
For every person across many situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Whenever you notice that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing issues, write it down. Are there specific times when you have a difficult time hearing the television, for instance? Are conversations difficult to follow in crowded places like restaurants? Write down these instances, along with the time and date, to provide your hearing specialist with helpful insights into your hearing difficulties.
Explore hearing aid options
Determining the landscape of hearing aids can enable you to make educated choices during your appointment. Do some research about how the different models of hearing aids might work with your needs and lifestyle. Being well-informed about available options can expedite discussions with your specialist and make sure that any suggestions are tailored to your needs.
Review your medical history
Collect a comprehensive overview of your medical history to share with your hearing specialist. Noteworthy illnesses, past surgeries, current medications, and any medical devices you utilize are all details that might be significant. This holistic snapshot of your health can help in identifying potential factors contributing to your hearing loss and guide personalized treatment suggestions.
Safeguard your ears
In the days prior to your hearing test, take proactive measures to safeguard your ears from loud noises. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your exam, so avoid environments with high noise levels, such as concerts or construction sites. You will get a better understanding of your hearing health and ensure the accuracy of your hearing exam by safeguarding your ears ahead of time.
Check your insurance coverage
Find out if your insurance covers hearing services. Understanding the level of your coverage ahead of time can help you avoid unforeseen costs and navigate any insurance-related questions confidently. If you’re uncertain about your coverage, think about reaching out to your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Have a friend go with you
You can go to your appointment by yourself but if you bring a friend it can be really helpful. Bringing somebody with you can provide extra 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 may not have noted yourself.
Expect results discussion
Normally, you will get the results of a hearing exam right away, unlike lots of other medical exams. Be ready for an in-depth conversation when you get the results of your exam on the same day. Whether the end result involves suggestions for hearing aids, lifestyle alterations, or hearing protection strategies, be ready to explore next steps collaboratively with your specialist.
By sticking with these seven essential steps, you can approach your hearing test with confidence and ensure that you get maximum benefit from your appointment.
If you haven’t scheduled your hearing test yet, contact us today to get your appointment on the books.