You scheduled a hearing exam but you’re so busy it’s understandable that you would have forgotten about it. Fortunately, you just got that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to get ready. So… what should you do?
The success of your appointment will be improved with just a little bit of simple prep.
7 steps to get ready for your hearing exam
Here are seven essential steps to make sure you’re totally prepared:
Record your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everybody and across a variety of situations. Whenever you notice that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing troubles, jot it down. For example, do you struggle to hear the television, particularly at certain volumes or times of the day? When you’re in crowded settings like restaurants, is it difficult for you to follow conversations? Write down these instances, along with the time and date, to supply your hearing specialist with valuable insights into your hearing difficulties.
Hearing aids can be really helpful
Understanding the landscape of hearing aids can enable you to make informed choices during the course of your appointment. Do some research about how the various types of hearing aids may work with your needs and lifestyle. Being knowledgeable about available options can clarify discussions with your specialist and ensure that any suggestions are personalized to your needs.
Review your medical history
Compile 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 could be significant. Personalizing our treatment recommendations by identifying any factors that might be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic understanding of your health.
Protect your ears
Use protective measures to safeguard your hearing from damage, particularly in the days leading up to your appointment. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your exam, so avoid environments with high noise levels, such as concerts or construction sites. By safeguarding your hearing before the test, you help guarantee the accuracy of the results and get a clear comprehension of your hearing health.
Check your insurance coverage
Investigate your health insurance coverage with regard to hearing assessments and related 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.
Bring along a companion
You can go to your appointment alone but if you bring a friend it can be really advantageous. Bringing someone with you can provide extra support and perspective whether it’s a friend, family member, or caregiver. Maybe you missed some essential piece of information or forgot something you were told and having someone with you can offer some added support.
Be ready for a talk about results
Unlike some medical exams where you might have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing exam results are typically available immediately. Be prepared for an in-depth discussion when you receive the results of your exam on the same day. Whether the outcome involves recommendations for hearing aids, lifestyle modifications, or hearing protection tips, be prepared to explore next steps in cooperation with your specialist.
By following these seven essential steps, you can approach your hearing test with confidence and ensure that you derive maximum benefit from your appointment.
It’s time to schedule a hearing test so give us a call!