7 Questions to Ask About Your Hearing Test

You’ve got an appointment for a hearing test and you’ve got questions about what to expect. That’s okay; we’ve got answers. Here are answers to frequently asked questions.

1. How often should I have a hearing test?

If you are in good health and under 60, you should have your hearing tested about every 3 to 5 years. At the age of 60, you should begin annual hearing tests.

2. Do I need to do anything to prepare?

You don’t need to study for a hearing test. But the audiologist will be asking about your medical history. It won’t hurt to take a moment and write down any history of ear infections or if any of your family members have hearing loss.

3. Is my hearing test covered by my insurance?

It depends. If you have a medical condition that can cause hearing loss and your physician orders a hearing assessment, Medicare may cover the cost. If you have private insurance, it may not cover the cost of your test. Be sure to check with your provider before your appointment.

4. Do the tests hurt or are they invasive?

No. The test will start with a physical examination of your ears. Then a puff of air will be blown into your ear to check your eardrum. The bone conduction test is nothing more than placing a vibrating probe against the mastoid bone behind the ear. None of these tests cause any pain. During the pure-tone test you will wear headphones and be asked to react to sounds.

5. How will I know the results?

The results of your hearing tests will be recorded on a strip of paper called an audiogram. Each ear will be charted separately. At the conclusion of the test, the audiologist will go over the results and explain how your ears performed.

6. Does everyone that has a hearing test need to get hearing aids?

No. If the hearing test indicates that you have obstructive hearing loss, you will be treated to resolve the obstruction. If you have sensorineural hearing loss, you may be prescribed hearing aids or other assistive hearing devices.

7. Are hearing aids expensive?

If you need hearing aids, the audiologist will review your options. They will work with you to find the model with the features you need within a budget you can afford.