You’re a pretty busy person, so it’s understandable that you completely forgot about the hearing exam you have scheduled. Thankfully, you just got that reminder text from the clinic, and you still have time to prepare. So… what 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 benefits of your appointment.
Prepare for your hearing exam with these 7 tips
In order to be totally prepared, use these 7 steps:
Record your symptoms
For every person across many situations, hearing loss manifests differently. Take some time to write down when you observe your hearing challenges the most. Are there certain times when you have a difficult time hearing the television, for instance? When you’re in crowded places like restaurants, is it difficult for you to follow conversations? If you take note of these instances, it will help us have a deeper look into your particular hearing situation.
Hearing aids can help a lot
The more you understand about hearing aid options, the simpler it will be for you to make informed choices at your appointment. Do some research about how the various types of hearing aids might work with your needs and lifestyle. When you are better informed, we will have a simpler time discussing your options and tailoring our suggestions to your particular needs.
Assess your medical history
Share the comprehensive overview of your medical history that you previously compiled. Include details like previous surgeries, current medications, notable illnesses or diseases, and any existing medical devices you use. This holistic picture of your health can aid in pinpointing potential factors contributing to your hearing loss and guide individualized treatment recommendations.
Use ear protection
Make use of protective strategies to safeguard your hearing from damage, particularly in the days prior up to your appointment. Exposure to excessive noise can skew the results of your exam, so steer clear of environments with high noise levels, such as concerts or construction sites. You will get a better comprehension of your hearing health and guarantee the accuracy of your hearing test by protecting your ears ahead of time.
Check your insurance coverage
Explore 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 associated questions and avoid surprise costs. You may need some clarification so don’t be afraid to reach out to us or your insurance provider.
Have a friend go with you
You can go to your appointment alone but if you bring a friend it can be very advantageous. Bringing somebody with you can offer 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 offer some additional support.
Anticipate results discussion
Usually, you will get the results of a hearing test right away, unlike lots of other medical exams. Be ready for an in-depth discussion when you receive the results of your test on the same day. We might encourage solutions including hearing protection tips, lifestyle changes, or the potential of getting hearing aids.
You will get maximum benefit from your appointment and you will come in with confidence if you adhere to these seven steps.
If you haven’t scheduled your hearing test yet, give us a call today to get your appointment on the books.