You’re a rather busy person, so it’s understandable that you totally forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. Luckily, you just received that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to prepare. So… what should you do?
The success of your appointment will be improved with just a little bit of simple prep.
Prepare for your hearing exam with these 7 tips
In order to be totally prepared, follow these 7 steps:
Record your symptoms
For every person across many situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Whenever you notice that you’re in a situation where you’re having hearing issues, jot 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 such as restaurants? If you take note of these instances, it will help us have a better look into your particular hearing situation.
Discover hearing aid options
The more you understand about hearing aid options, the simpler it will be for you to make informed choices at your appointment. Research different models of hearing aids, their features, and how they will work with your needs and lifestyle. When you are better informed, we will have an easier time discussing your options and adapting our recommendations to your particular needs.
Review your medical history
Share the comprehensive overview of your medical history that you previously compiled. Noteworthy illnesses, previous surgeries, current medications, and any medical devices you utilize are all details that could be significant. Individualizing our treatment suggestions by identifying any factors that might be contributing to your hearing loss will be that much easier when we have a holistic picture of your health.
Use ear protection
Use protective measures to safeguard your hearing from damage, especially in the days leading up to your appointment. Exposure to too much noise can skew the results of your exam, so avoid 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 understanding of your hearing health.
Look into your insurance
Investigate your health insurance coverage with regard to hearing tests and related services. Understanding the level of your coverage ahead of time can help you avoid unexpected costs and navigate any insurance-related queries with confidence. If you’re uncertain about your coverage, consider contacting your insurance provider or consulting with your hearing specialist for clarification.
Bring a companion
You can go to your appointment by yourself but if you bring a friend it can be really advantageous. Whether it’s a member of the family, friend, or caregiver, bringing someone along can provide extra support and perspective during the consultation. They can help recall important information discussed during the appointment and offer insights into your hearing experiences that you may not have noticed yourself.
Expect results discussion
Unlike some medical tests where you may have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing test results are generally available right away. Be prepared for an in-depth discussion when you get the results of your test on the same day. We might recommend solutions like hearing protection tips, lifestyle modifications, 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.
If you haven’t scheduled your hearing exam yet, give us a call today to get your appointment on the books.