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 get ready. So… what should you do?
While it may not call for an all-night study session like in your scholastic days, a bit of preparation can make a considerable difference in maximizing the benefits of your appointment.
7 steps to get ready for your hearing exam
Here are seven crucial strategies to ensure you’re fully ready:
Take note of your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everyone and across various situations. Whenever you detect that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing problems, jot it down. For example, do you struggle to hear the television, especially at certain volumes or times of the day? Are conversations hard to follow in crowded places 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.
Discover hearing aid options
The more you know about hearing aid options, the easier it will be for you to make informed decisions at your appointment. Research different types of hearing aids, their features, and how they align with your preferences and lifestyle. Being well-informed about available options can clarify discussions with your specialist and ensure that any suggestions are personalized to your needs.
Assess your medical history
Share the detailed overview of your medical history that you previously collected. Include details like previous surgeries, current medications, notable illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you use. Individualizing our treatment recommendations by determining any factors that may be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic understanding of your health.
Safeguard your ears
Use protective strategies to safeguard your hearing from harm, especially in the days leading up to your appointment. Exposure to too much noise can skew the results of your test, so steer clear of environments with high noise levels, like concerts or construction sites. By safeguarding your hearing leading up to the test, you help guarantee the accuracy of the results and get a clear understanding of your hearing health.
Look into your insurance
Investigate your health insurance coverage regarding 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 surprise expenses. If you’re unsure about your coverage, consider reaching out to your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Have a friend go with you
While attending your appointment alone is totally fine, having a companion can provide a number of benefits. Bringing someone with you can provide extra support and perspective whether it’s a friend, family member, or caregiver. Perhaps you missed some important piece of information or forgot something you were told and having somebody with you can give some added support.
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. 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 alterations, or hearing protection tips, be prepared to investigate next steps in cooperation with your specialist.
You will get maximum benefit from your appointment and you will come in with confidence if you follow these seven steps.
If you haven’t scheduled your hearing exam yet, contact us today to get your appointment on the books.