Before Your Hearing Center Test

You've scheduled an appointment at a hearing center, and you are getting ready to get the help you need. You know you are having some trouble but you are not sure how bad it is or what you can do about it. The good news is that there are answers for you after you visit and complete the test. However, before you get there, there are several things you can do to see a significant improvement in the results of the test. In short, you can prepare for it by simply bringing with you the information your audiologist needs to know. The Symptoms A good place to start in your preparations for a hearing center test is simply to list the symptoms you are having on a piece of paper. What are you really dealing with? You may want to discuss concerns with your inability to hear certain things. You may be dealing with a situation in which your friends are telling you that they have to repeat themselves too often. Sometimes, it is best to make a point of talking to those with whom you interact often and find out what is going on. You may find yourself better prepared to answer these questions from the audiologist when you arrive for your test. Your Medical History One of the steps in the testing process is for you to provide your medical history to your doctor. The doctor will want to know if you have been exposed to any situations or medical conditions that could be playing a role in your reduced ability to hear well. You should also bring with you a list of the medications you are taking as a way to show your doctor what they are. Sometimes, medications for infections can lead to the loss of the ability to hear. Other Situations What else could be contributing to your loss? For some, work conditions are not really the problem. You may be exposed to activities you enjoy doing that can play a role in damaging your hearing. For example, if you like fireworks or going to loud concerts, these can be factors affecting your situation. Consider any situations in which high noise levels or very high-pitched sounds could have affected you. Do not go to the hearing center on your own. Rather, bring someone along with you who you live with or who is otherwise with you often. This person may be asked some questions about you too. It is a good idea to jot down any questions you have for your doctor in advance as well. Most of the time, these tests do not take long, but you are able to ask questions and to gather information you need throughout it.