Think You Need Hearing Aids? How To Prepare For Your Hearing Test
If you're scheduled for a hearing test with your audiologist, now's the time to prepare for your appointment. This is especially important if your doctor has recommended hearing aids for you. If the results of your hearing test aren't accurate, you may not receive the right hearing aids. To reduce that risk, make sure you're ready for your appointment. If you're not sure how to ensure the most accurate results on your hearing test, follow the tips provided below.
Start With a Trip to Your Doctor
If you're trying to prepare for your hearing test, the best thing you can do is have your ears cleaned. You might think that your ears are clean enough, especially if you wipe them with a soft cloth each time you shower. However, that type of cleaning process doesn't remove the wax build-up that can be found deep inside your ears. Unfortunately, the wax buildup can actually affect the results of your hearing test. Before you have your hearing test, be sure to have your doctor clean your ears.
Document Your Medical History
If you're suffering from hearing loss, and your doctor thinks you need hearing aids, be sure to document your medical history. Your audiologist will need to know your medical history before you have your hearing test. This is especially important if you've had previous medical issues that could affect your hearing. Some of those issues include frequent ear infections or illnesses such as diabetes or meningitis. It's also important that you provide your audiologist with a complete list of any prescription medications you might take. There are some medications, such as certain antibiotics, that can cause hearing loss. Your audiologist will need to know if you're taking any of those medications.
Keep Your Allergies in Check
If you're scheduled for a hearing test and you suffer from allergies, get the symptoms in check before your appointment. Allergies, and even the common cold, can cause symptoms that will interfere with the accuracy of your hearing test. This is especially true when symptoms cause your ears to clog. If you're experiencing allergy or cold symptoms, and your current medication isn't resolving the symptoms, visit your doctor before you have your hearing tested. It might be time for a different cold and allergy medication.
Don't take chances with your hearing. If you need to have a hearing test, Contact a specialist such as Audiology Services.
