You’re a rather busy person, so it’s understandable that you totally forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. It’s a good thing you received a text from the clinic reminding you in time for you 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 significant difference in maximizing the value of your appointment.
7 steps to prepare for your hearing exam
In order to be completely prepared, follow these 7 steps:
Document your symptoms
For every individual across various situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Whenever you notice that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing issues, write it down. For instance, do you struggle to hear the television, particularly at certain volumes or times of the day? Are conversations challenging to follow in crowded places like restaurants? Write down these instances, along with the time and date, to supply your hearing specialist with valuable insights into your hearing difficulties.
Discover hearing aid options
The more you understand about hearing aid options, the simpler it will be for you to make informed decisions at your appointment. Research different models of hearing aids, their features, and how they will work with your preferences and lifestyle. When you are better informed, we will have a simpler time talking about your options and tailoring our recommendations to your specific needs.
Review your medical history
Share the comprehensive overview of your medical history that you previously collected. Include details such as previous surgeries, current medications, notable illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you utilize. Individualizing our treatment suggestions by identifying any factors that may be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic picture of your health.
Protect your ears
Make use of protective measures to shield your hearing from damage, especially in the days leading up to your exam. Avoid things like construction sites and rock concerts where the noise levels are very high because exposure can skew the results of your exam. By safeguarding your hearing leading up to the test, you help ensure the accuracy of the results and get a clear comprehension of your hearing health.
Look into your insurance
Explore your health insurance coverage with regard to hearing tests and related services. By getting a heads-up on your coverage, you will be better able to answer any associated questions and avoid unexpected expenses. If you’re unsure about your coverage, consider contacting your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Bring a companion
While going to your appointment alone is totally fine, having a companion can provide a number of benefits. Bringing someone with you can offer added 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.
Be prepared for a discussion about results
Normally, you will get the results of a hearing exam the same day, unlike lots of other medical tests. Prepare yourself mentally to get these results and participate in a meaningful conversation with us about their implications. 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 exams with confidence and guarantee that you derive maximum benefit from your appointment.
It’s time to schedule a hearing test so give us a call!