You may feel nervous making an appointment to see a hearing specialist but it’s important to remember that this is the first step to getting the help that you need. An audiologist can help you to make positive strides towards regaining your hearing capacity through individualized treatment. So, with your appointment approaching, you may be wondering what you can do to communicate well with your hearing specialist and get the most out of your session. Take a look at these tips to help you get prepared.
Get a Copy of Your Medical Records
It can help if you take a copy of your medical records with you to your appointment. Underlying conditions can often be linked to hearing loss. Conditions such as heart disease is a typical example that can cause hearing loss.
Taking your medical records with you could help your audiologist to assess your hearing loss and treat you accordingly. Your medical records will also contain information regarding any prescription medication you’re currently taking. Your medications could be affecting your hearing loss, your audiologist will recommend you talk with your doctor about switching your medication.
Where Do You Have the Most Trouble?
Before attending your appointment, it can help to think about where you have the most trouble with your hearing. Do you find yourself turning the volume up to listen to the TV or music? Perhaps you find it difficult to hear people talking in crowded rooms. It can help to write down your experiences with your hearing in the week leading up to your appointment so they’re fresh in your memory. If you’re not able to pinpoint where you have difficulty, don’t worry. Your audiologist will help you to distinguish where your hearing is affected the most.
Write Down Questions
It’s likely that you’ll have some questions for your hearing specialist. If your hearing loss has come on suddenly, you may be wondering what this means for the rest of your life. Your audiologist will be able to answer any of your questions and identify why your hearing loss has occurred.
You’ll then be offered several treatment types to choose from and discuss with your hearing specialist. You may find that only certain treatments suit your lifestyle. Before going to your appointment, write down as many questions as you can think of. Having these questions written down on paper and taking blank paper and a pen with you can also help you to communicate with your audiologist if you’re having difficulty keeping up with the conversation.
Do Your Research
If you’re aware of what’s causing your hearing loss, you may be able to do some research ahead of your appointment regarding treatment. For some people, it may be as simple as a removal of an obstacle or earwax to clear the ear.
For others, it may mean using a hearing aid that suits your needs. If you research some of these treatments beforehand, you’ll be more prepared to ask the questions you want while you’re there.
Bring a Friend or Family Member
It can help to bring a friend or family member to your appointment. It’s good to have someone with you who can offer moral support in a situation you may never have been in before. Additionally, your friend may be able to help you communicate with your hearing specialist if you find it difficult.
A loved may also be able to ask questions that you don’t think of in the moment. It can be a lot of information to take in when you’re worried about your hearing. Having someone with you can help ensure you walk away with all the information you require to move forward positively.
Hobbies and Lifestyle
If you have a particular hobby that you love, hearing loss doesn’t have to stop you doing it. Talk to your audiologist about the things you love to do and how your hearing loss may affect them. Your hearing specialist may be able to recommend treatments that help you to continue to do what you love. There may be an adaptation period where you need to get used to doing things differently but hearing loss should never stop you from living your life.
If you’ve been experiencing symptoms of hearing loss, it’s vital that you book an appointment with a qualified and experienced audiologist. Give our team at GL Wyeno Hearing Specialists PC a call today at (402) 463-2431.
