Questions to Expect at a Hearing Center Appointment

Once you schedule a hearing center appointment, you are well on your way to getting the help you need for your condition. Everyone's situation is vastly different, but for many people, it is a good idea to be fully prepared before going into such a meeting. The fact is, the more information you have to provide to your doctor, the better your chances of finally improving your loss of ability to hear. Be fully prepared by knowing what your doctor is going to ask you or need from you during this appointment.

What to Expect from the Audiologist

At a hearing center, the doctor on duty is called an audiologist. He or she focuses on the ear and the overall ability to hear. These doctors will perform a thorough exam on your ear and your overall facial features. The goal is to find out if the structure of the ear is proper and, such as with old age, if there is any damage to the inner portion of the ear. However, he or she will then ask you questions in the hopes of learning more.

Your doctor will want you to describe your symptoms, such as your need to turn the television up or that you feel that people are muffled when speaking. You will need to inform the doctor of any type of ringing sound, hissing, or even a roaring sound occurring. Discuss any pain you have. Talk about how long you have suffered these symptoms and if they have come on gradually or all of a sudden.

Additionally, you will want to provide information about any instances in which you have been, potentially, exposed to loud noises. This can happen, for example, if you work in a factory or you do any type of recreational activity that keeps you close to loud sounds. You should also talk about any health concerns you have had in the recent past, including infections, high fevers and diseases. Are you taking medications? Are you struggling with participating in the things you used to like to do? The doctor will ultimately want as much information as possible from you.

When it comes to your appointment at a hearing center, it is ultimately up to you to make sure it goes well. That means being prepared. Bring a list of your medications and medical conditions. Be ready to talk about family members who may also have suffered this condition. It is also a good idea for you to discuss your overall symptoms. Bring along a friend or a person that lives with you to discuss what you are like at home. All of these things can help the audiologist to better understand what is happening and to potentially offer a solution.