You’re a fairly busy individual, so it’s reasonable that you completely forgot about the hearing test you have scheduled. It’s a good thing you received a text from the clinic reminding you in time for you to prepare. But what kind of preparation should you do?
While it might 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 value of your appointment.
7 steps to prepare for your hearing test
Here are seven significant strategies to make sure you’re totally prepared:
Write down your symptoms
Hearing loss manifests differently for everybody and across a variety of situations. Take some time to write down when you observe your hearing difficulties the most. For example, do you struggle to hear the television, especially at certain volumes or times of the day? Are conversations difficult to follow in crowded places such as restaurants? Write down these situations, along with the time and date, to supply your hearing specialist with useful insights into your hearing challenges.
Discover hearing aid options
Understanding the landscape of hearing aids can enable you to make educated decisions during the course of your appointment. Do some research about how the various models of hearing aids might work with your needs and lifestyle. When you are better informed, we will have an easier time talking about your options and tailoring our recommendations to your specific needs.
Review your medical history
Share the detailed overview of your medical history that you previously compiled. Notable illnesses, previous surgeries, current medications, and any medical devices you utilize are all details that might be important. This holistic picture of your health can aid in determining potential factors contributing to your hearing loss and guide personalized treatment suggestions.
Protect your ears
In the days prior to your hearing test, take proactive measures to safeguard your ears from loud noises. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your exam, so steer clear of environments with high noise levels, like concerts or construction sites. By protecting your hearing before the test, you help guarantee the accuracy of the results and obtain a clear understanding of your hearing health.
Check your insurance coverage
Check to see if your insurance covers hearing services. Understanding the extent of your coverage beforehand can help you avoid unforeseen costs and navigate any insurance-related questions with confidence. You may need some clarification so don’t be afraid to get in touch with us or your insurance provider.
Bring along a companion
While going to your appointment by yourself is perfectly fine, having a companion can offer several advantages. Bringing someone with you can provide added 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 somebody with you can provide some added support.
Be ready for a discussion about results
Unlike some medical tests where you might have to wait days or weeks for results, hearing exam results are usually available right away. Be prepared for an in-depth discussion when you receive the results of your test on the same day. Whether the end result 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 adhere to these seven steps.
It’s time to schedule a hearing exam so give us a call!