4 Questions to Ask at Your Hearing Test

While your hearing care provider is likely an experienced specialist that is fully committed to providing professional and convenient service at all times, it’s vital that you take responsibility for your hearing health too. One of the best ways to do this is to ask your hearing specialist a number of key questions.

Ask the four questions below, and the answers below should provide clarity throughout the examination and any transitional phases you may encounter as a result of the diagnosis you receive.

1: How bad is my hearing loss?

No two people have the exact same hearing profile, which is why it’s important to understand how badly you are affected by the problem. While everyone has a unique result, the hearing specialist will classify your hearing loss as either mild, moderate, severe or profound.

The hearing test results will also determine whether the hearing loss is associated with high-frequency or other elements. The hearing care provider will also identify other hearing abnormalities. By asking for a thorough explanation, you can take a far more active role regarding the ongoing management. In turn, your future should be far more convenient and comfortable.

2: Do I need hearing aids?

Furthermore, if you are advised to wear hearing aids, you will need to learn more about the different styles, manufacturers and features. Modern hearing aid devices can offer a range of additional features such as Bluetooth connections to devices and white noise capabilities.

The three main types of hearing aid are Behind the Ear (BTE), In the Canal (ITC), and in the ear (ITE.) The hearing specialist can discuss all three styles, including their various subcategories in further detail to ensure you make the best decision for your hearing requirements as well as your personal comfort. The choice between a single hearing aid or dual hearing aids is vital too.

3: How can I adapt to wearing hearing aids?

If you experience hearing loss or related issues, the continued use of hearing aids will unquestionably have a positive impact on your life. However, it will take time to adapt to the new hearing profile as well as the concept of wearing a device in your ears.

The hearing specialist may offer advice such as easing your way into wearing hearing aids by using them for just a couple of hours at a time. Moreover, you may receive support on dealing with the potentially overwhelming sensation of hearing sounds that you’ve not heard for years, as well as the way your own voice may sound different or distorted. It can take several weeks to adapt, but it’ll be worth it.

4: How can I take care of my hearing aids?

It’s likely that you will go through several pairs of hearing aids throughout your life, but you still need to take care of them. Aside from extending their lifespan, it is a key step to maintaining optimized performance levels for better hearing and comfort.

The hearing care provider can guide you through every aspect from daily cleaning to overnight storage, battery changing to troubleshooting, tubing replacements to recalibration. When added to support regarding future hearing examinations and other crucial features, this information is sure to help you gain maximum enjoyment from your devices. So, remember, the hearing specialist is there to help.