You’re a really busy person, so it’s understandable that you totally forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled for tomorrow. It’s a good thing we sent you a reminder text so you should have a few hours to prepare. So what should I do to get ready?
You won’t have to stay awake all night cramming for a hearing test like you did in school the night before a big exam. With a hearing test, it’s more about attempting to remember everything you need to know regarding your symptoms. Getting the most out of your time with us is what preparing for your hearing test is really about.
Get prepared using these 7 tips!
1. Make a list of your symptoms (and when they happen)
The symptoms of hearing loss vary from person to person and at different times. Some symptoms might be more pronounced than others. So take some notes on when your symptoms are most pronounced before you come see us. You can write things down like:
- Was it hard to hear the television? How loud is the volume? And do you experience that it’s harder to hear later in the evening than in the morning?
- Is it frustrating to have conversations on the phone? Note times when understanding the person on the other end is harder.
- Did you have issues hearing a conversation while eating out in a crowded restaurant? If so, how frequently does that occur?
- When you’re in meetings at work, do you lose focus? What time during the day is this most prevalent?
We find this type of information very helpful. Note the day and time of these symptoms if you can. At least note the occurrence of the symptoms if you can’t remember the times.
2. Research hearing aids
How much do you really know about hearing aids? You don’t want to make any decisions founded on false information you may have picked up someplace. A good opportunity to get some accurate info is when we inform you that hearing aids would benefit you.
Knowing what types of hearing devices are available and what your preferences may be can help speed up the process and help you get better information.
3. Go over your medical history
This is another instance when writing things down can help speed up the post-hearing-test-discussion. Before you come in, you should take a little time to write down your medical history. Write down major medical occurrences and also minor ones. Here are some examples:
- Allergies and reactions to medications.
- Any history of sickness or health problems (you don’t need to note every cold, but anything that stands out).
- Major or minor surgical procedures that you have undergone.
- Medical equipment you may presently be using.
- What kind of medication you take.
4. Stay away from loud sounds and noisy settings
If you have a hearing assessment scheduled and you attend a loud concert the night before, the outcome will be impacted. The results will be similarly skewed if you go to an airshow the day of your test. The point here is that you need to avoid loud noises before you come in for your hearing exam. This will ensure the results are a correct reflection of the current state of your hearing.
5. Consult your insurance ahead of time
It can be a bit confusing sorting out what parts of your visit will be covered by insurance. If your hearing impairment is part of a medical problem, some insurance plans will cover it. But other plans may not. You will be a great deal more confident at your appointment if you get this all squared away before you come in. We can also help you in some situations. If not, you can speak to your insurance company directly.
6. Bring a friend or family member in with you
Bringing a trusted friend or loved one with you to a hearing appointment isn’t absolutely necessary, but it can present numerous benefits. Here are several of the most notable advantages:
- You don’t always know when your hearing isn’t working right but it’s a safe bet your spouse or partner does! So our exam and diagnosis will be determined by much deeper and more comprehensive information.
- When you’re at your appointment, a lot of information will be discussed. When you get home, after the appointment, you will have an easier time recalling all of the information we give you if someone else is there with you.
7. Be prepared for your results
It might be days or even weeks before you get the results of many medical diagnostics. But that’s not the situation with a hearing exam. With a hearing exam, you will get the results right away.
And what’s even better, we’ll show you how to improve your general hearing health and help you understand the meaning of your results. Maybe that’s a hearing aid, maybe it’s some changes to your behavior, or some hearing protection. You’ll know immediately either way.
So there’s no need to overthink it. But being ready will be helpful, particularly for you.