What to Ask Your Audiologist About Your Hearing Test

You may find that you have been struggling with your hearing health for some time, or perhaps only just noticed some changes. There may have been damage caused because of a job you have had or the lifestyle choices that you have made in the past. This is when you may need to book an appointment to get checked out. Attending an appointment with an audiologist for the first time may be daunting. 

You could be anxious about what to expect or not sure what you need to do. This is when it is important for you to understand what is involved when visiting an audiologist. Whatever the reason to book an appointment with an audiologist before you visit you may have some questions to ask. With that in mind, here are some of the things that you could ask your audiologist during a hearing test. 

Do I need to prepare for a hearing test?

Having your hearing tested doesn’t require much preparation on your part. Prior to the hearing test, the audiologist will have you fill out forms regarding your medical background and insurance information. They will also want to discuss any family history of hearing loss you may have, in addition to symptoms you are experiencing. 

The most common symptoms of hearing loss include: difficulty hearing women and children, muffled conversations on the phone, trouble hearing in group situations, asking others to frequently repeat themselves and turning the volume up on the television or radio.  

What will the hearing test entail?

Having your hearing tested will generally take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour. The process is non-invasive and will involve listening to a series of sounds or words at different pitches. The length of time needed to conduct the screening depends on the types of tests your audiologist performs. There are several variations of hearing tests, each looking for something specific, but the most common ones include: pure-tone testing, speech recognition and bone conduction.

When will I get the results?

Hearing tests can be completed quickly, allowing you to get the results in the same day. After finishing your hearing tests, the audiologist will talk to you about your audiogram. This charts the results of the testing you just completed; and will provide a complete picture of your hearing health. If your audiologist identifies a problem with your hearing, they will recommend the best treatment possible. 

What treatments are available for hearing loss?

The most commonly suggested treatment for combatting hearing loss is hearing aids. These powerful devices come in three distinct styles: in the ear (ITE), behind the ear (BTE) and in the canal (ITC), with a host of variations in each. Your audiologist will talk to you about what your specific hearing loss, lifestyle and aesthetic preferences are to ensure you get a device that not only helps you hear better, but also feels comfortable and can boost your confidence.