You scheduled a hearing exam but you’re so busy it’s reasonable that you would have forgotten about it. Thankfully, you just received that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to get ready. 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 substantial difference in maximizing the value of your appointment.
Get ready for your hearing exam with these 7 tips
Here are seven crucial steps to ensure you’re totally ready:
Take note of your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everyone and across various situations. Whenever you notice that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing problems, write it down. 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? If you take note of these situations, it will help us have a better look into your particular hearing situation.
Explore hearing aid options
Understanding the landscape of hearing aids can empower you to make educated decisions during 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 make sure that any suggestions are tailored to your needs.
Assess your medical history
Share the comprehensive outline of your medical history that you previously compiled. Notable illnesses, past surgeries, current medications, and any medical devices you utilize are all details that might be significant. This holistic picture of your health can help in pinpointing potential factors contributing to your hearing loss and guide individualized treatment recommendations.
Use ear protection
Use protective strategies to safeguard your hearing from damage, particularly in the days prior up to your exam. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your exam, so steer clear of environments with high noise levels, like concerts or construction sites. By safeguarding your hearing before the test, you help ensure the accuracy of the results and obtain a clear comprehension of your hearing health.
Look into your insurance
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 surprise costs. If you’re unsure about your coverage, think about contacting your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Bring along a companion
You can go to your appointment by yourself but if you bring a friend it can be very advantageous. Bringing someone with you can provide extra support and perspective whether it’s a friend, family member, or caregiver. Maybe you missed some important piece of information or forgot something you were told and having someone with you can give some added support.
Be prepared for a conversation about results
Unlike some medical exams where you may have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing test results are generally available right away. Prepare yourself mentally to get these results and engage in a meaningful discussion with us about their ramifications. We might encourage solutions such as hearing protection strategies, lifestyle changes, or the potential of getting hearing aids.
You will get maximum benefit from your appointment and you will come in with confidence if you follow these seven steps.
It’s time to schedule a hearing test so give us a call!