You’re a pretty busy person, so it’s understandable that you totally forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. Fortunately, you just got that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to prepare. But what type of preparation should you do?
While it might not require an all-night study session like in your scholastic days, a bit of preparation can make a significant difference in maximizing the benefits of your appointment.
7 steps to prepare for your hearing test
Here are seven crucial strategies to ensure you’re completely ready:
Take note of your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everyone and across various situations. Take some time to jot down when you observe your hearing challenges the most. Are there particular times when you have a difficult time hearing the television, for instance? Are conversations challenging to follow in crowded settings such as restaurants? Write down these situations, along with the time and date, to provide your hearing specialist with valuable insights into your hearing difficulties.
Hearing aids can be really helpful
Determining the landscape of hearing aids can empower you to make educated decisions during the course of your appointment. Do some research about how the different types of hearing aids may work with your needs and lifestyle. When you are better informed, we will have a simpler time discussing your options and tailoring our suggestions to your particular needs.
Evaluate your medical history
Compile a comprehensive overview of your medical history to share with your hearing specialist. Include details such as past surgeries, current medications, noteworthy illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you utilize. 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 picture of your health.
Protect your ears
In the days leading up to your hearing exam, take proactive steps to safeguard your hearing from loud noises. Avoid things like construction sites and rock concerts where the noise levels are very high because exposure can skew the results of your exam. You will get a better comprehension of your hearing health and guarantee the accuracy of your hearing exam by protecting your ears ahead of time.
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 unexpected costs. You might need some clarification so don’t be afraid to get in touch with us or your insurance provider.
Have a friend accompany you
You can go to your appointment alone but if you bring a friend it can be really helpful. Bringing someone 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 noticed yourself.
Be ready for a discussion about results
Usually, you will get the results of a hearing exam right away, unlike lots of other medical exams. Be prepared for an in-depth discussion when you receive the results of your exam on the same day. Whether the end result involves suggestions for hearing aids, lifestyle adjustments, or hearing protection tips, be ready to explore next steps in cooperation with your specialist.
By following these seven crucial steps, you can approach your hearing exams with confidence and guarantee that you derive maximum benefit from your appointment.
It’s time to schedule a hearing exam so give us a call!