If you have experienced a difficulty understanding speech, or following along during conversations you may be experiencing hearing loss. By scheduling a hearing test, your audiologist will be able to diagnose and treat your hearing loss. To maximize the benefits of your hearing test familiarizing yourself with various types of hearing aids and test prior to your appointment with the audiologist. This proactive step allows for an informed conversation about available options and encourages your active participation by making suggestions based on your preferences. By doing so, you provide the audiologist with valuable insights into the type of device that interests you, facilitating their search for a suitable model tailored to your needs and desires.

Schedule an Appointment

To optimize your hearing test experience, the initial step is setting up the appointment at a convenient time that accommodates your schedule, allowing ample time for your inquiries. It’s essential to schedule your hearing test with an audiologist to ensure you are getting the most out of your test. Before making the appointment, take the opportunity to explore online reviews and seek recommendations from friends or family. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the operating hours and amenities.

The Process of The Hearing Test

Gaining an understanding into a new experience beforehand can be incredibly beneficial, allowing you to anticipate what’s ahead. Consider a hearing test as an integral part of your routine healthcare, as this will help in diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Most often, you will have a discussion with your audiologist about your experiences and hearing at the moment. You can voice any concerns and talk about any changes that may be happening. This is helpful to the audiologist to know what they might be looking for. Several tests may be used during a hearing test:

Pure-tone testing: A common hearing test to find the lowest volume that can be heard.
Speech testing: Listening to and repeating words.
Auditory brainstem response: Checking the connection between the inner ear and the brain.
Tympanometry: Checks the movement of the eardrums and looks for fluid in the middle ear, wax or ruptures.
Otoacoustic emissions test: Looks at inner ear function.
Bone conduction testing: Checks to see if the hearing loss is present in the sensory cells or is from a blockage.

Ask Questions

Asking pertinent questions during your hearing test can significantly enhance its effectiveness. Start by inquiring about the specific procedures involved in the test to understand what to expect during the assessment. You might ask about the different types of tests conducted and their purposes, gaining awareness into how each test contributes to assessing your hearing abilities. Consider asking your audiologist about the results and what they signify, ensuring a clear understanding of your hearing health. Additionally, ask about potential causes or contributing factors if any hearing loss is detected and discuss available treatment options or recommendations.

Take Someone with You

Having someone accompany you to your hearing test appointment can significantly improve your experience. Bringing along a friend or family member can provide a comforting presence, especially if you’re feeling nervous. Additionally, their support can be invaluable, from offering reassurance during the appointment to jotting down essential information shared by the audiologist. Having a friend or family member present can aid in recalling crucial details you wish to discuss, ensuring a more comprehensive and helpful visit.

Look at the Different Types of Hearing Aids

If you suspect hearing loss or are considering getting new hearing aids, exploring potential options beforehand can be beneficial. Familiarizing yourself with different types of hearing aids and their features can provide valuable insights into what might suit your needs. While your audiologist can offer guidance, many individuals find it helpful to conduct their own preliminary research. This self-education can facilitate more informed discussions with your audiologist and enable you to better understand the available options, helping you to make choices aligned with your preferences and lifestyle.

There are multiple styles of hearing aids include, behind the ear (BTE), in the ear (ITE), in the canal (ITC), invisible in canal (IIC) and completely in canal (CIC). Your audiologist will discuss the different options with you, helping you to determine which will be best for your hearing needs.

If you want to learn more about how to get the most out of your hearing test, contact an audiologist. To discuss your hearing or schedule a hearing test, call Hearing Aid Consultants of North Mississippi at (662) 234-1337.