You totally forgot your hearing exam tomorrow, but that’s not very surprising, you’re really busy. Luckily, you just received that reminder text from us, and you still have some time to get ready. So… what should you do?
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. Getting ready for a hearing exam is more about thinking through your symptoms and making sure you don’t forget anything. Getting the most out of your time with us is what getting ready for your hearing test is really about.
Here are 7 easy ways to get prepped and ready!
1. List out all of your symptoms and when they manifest
The symptoms of hearing loss vary from person to person and at different times. Some symptoms might be more prominent than others. So take a few notes on when your symptoms are most pronounced before you come see us. You can write things down like:
- Did you have a difficult time hearing the TV? Do you have it turned way up? And do you notice that it’s harder to hear at night than in the morning?
- Do you find yourself losing focus during meetings at work? Does this normally happen in the morning? All day?
- Did you have difficulty hearing a conversation while dining out in a packed restaurant? If so, how often does that happen?
- Is talking on the phone difficult? Take note of times when understanding the person on the other end is harder.
We find this type of information very useful. Note the day and time of these symptoms if you can. At least observe the occurrence of the symptoms if you can’t remember the times.
2. Do some research on hearing aids
How accurate is your knowledge about hearing aids? You don’t want to make any decisions founded on false information you might have heard someplace. An ideal time to get some valid info is when we inform you that hearing aids would help you.
You will get better information and the process will be accelerated when you know what types of hearing devices are available and understand what your preferences are.
3. Think about your medical past
This is another instance when writing things down can help quicken the post-hearing-test-discussion. Write down your medical history before you come in for your exam. Write down major medical incidents and also minor ones. You should note things like:
- Sickness or diseases you’ve experienced that stick out in your mind.
- Allergies and reactions to medicines.
- Any medical equipment you use.
- Major or minor surgeries that you have undergone.
- Medications you’re currently taking.
4. Avoid loud sounds and noisy settings
If you go to a booming rock concert the day before your hearing test, it’s going to affect the outcome. Likewise, if you check-out an airshow the morning before your test, the results will not be correct. The point here is that you should steer clear of loud noises before you come in for your hearing exam. This will ensure the results are an accurate reflection of the current health of your hearing.
5. Talk to your insurance beforehand
It can be a bit confusing sorting out what portions of your visit will be covered by insurance. Some plans may cover your hearing exam, particularly if it’s related to a medical disorder. But other plans may not. You will be a lot more confident at your appointment if you get this all squared away before you come in. In some instances, you can work directly with us to get answers about insurance. If we can’t, you will need to speak directly with your insurance company.
6. Ask someone to come in with you
There are several considerable advantages to bringing a friend or relative with you to your hearing exam, though it’s not entirely necessary. Here are some of the most notable benefits:
- Even when you aren’t aware that you have hearing impairment, people close to you will absolutely be aware of it. So our exam and diagnosis will be determined by much deeper and more detailed information.
- When you’re at your appointment, a lot of information will be covered. Having a trusted friend or family member with you can help you remember all of that information later.
7. Be ready for your results
With many medical diagnostics, it may be days or weeks before you get your diagnosis. But with a hearing test, that’s not the situation. With a hearing exam, you will get the results immediately.
And better yet, we’ll help you understand what your results mean and how you can enhance your overall hearing health. Perhaps that’s a hearing aid, maybe it’s some changes to your lifestyle, or some hearing protection. You’ll know immediately either way.
So, you don’t need to cram for your hearing exam. But it is helpful, mostly for you, to be prepared!