How to Prepare for A Hearing Test
Congratulations! You’ve taken the first step to treating your hearing loss by scheduling a full hearing test with a hearing healthcare professional. That’s not an easy step to take, as statistics indicate only about 20 percent of adults who could benefit from hearing treatment seek it out. As you get ready for that appointment, here are a few things to be aware of that will help you feel better prepared for your time in the office.
Consider any health problems
A hearing healthcare professional will be testing your hearing ability, but things like colds and earwax buildup can still interfere with accurate testing. If you suspect you may have earwax blockage, inform your hearing specialist of the symptoms you’re experiencing. If so, you may need to have them cleaned prior to your evaluation. As for colds and infections, you can’t control when they hit, but at least communicate with your hearing care professional about them ahead of time so they can decide how to proceed.
Do your own research
During the hearing test, a hearing healthcare provider will go over your medical and hearing history, share information about their testing methods and their purposes, and discuss your hearing test results and possible treatment options with you. This information will be invaluable, but the more you know going in, the better you’ll be able to understand what they share with you. Take the time to do a little research on hearing loss, testing methods and treatments so you’ll be prepared with some answers and questions.
Write down your questions
As you do some research, you’ll undoubtedly come up with questions. Jot these down and take them with you to your hearing evaluation so the hearing healthcare practitioner can help answer them. As the most knowledgeable in their field, these individuals are the best source of accurate (and personalized) answers. Remember that no question is irrelevant or too simple when it comes to your health.
Be ready to hear better
Finally, decide to go into your hearing appointment with an open mind and a positive outlook. Regardless of your diagnosis, there are treatments and therapies that can help, not to mention hearing aids that are becoming extremely advanced and inconspicuous. Stay positive, be ready to pay attention and learn, and you’ll be prepared to get the most out of your hearing test.