How to Prepare for a Hearing Test

Having your hearing tested is a completely normal process of growing up and aging. The tests are simple, non-invasive and typically take less than an hour to complete. If you have recently scheduled an appointment to have your hearing tested, consider the following easy ways you can ensure you’re ready for your visit!

List Your Medical History 

It might seem like a precursor to your hearing test when your audiologist asks for your medical history, but actually, this is part of the test as well. Medical conditions – even if they are now resolved – can have an impact illness your hearing: so too can medications. 

Your appointment with your audiologist will go smoothly if you come prepared, with a list anything that might have caused your potential hearing loss. Before your appointment contact your medical professional and get a list of conditions and medications. 

Find a Friend 

It can be useful to bring a friend along to your audiologist appointment not only for moral support but also as a second opinion on your hearing credentials. Often, we think we hear okay, but those we communicate with regularly might have a different experience. Find someone you trust and talk to often. 

Bringing a friend to your appointment is also an excellent idea if you feel anxious about it. Having your ears tested and potentially getting a hearing device can be daunting and overwhelming, but if you have a familiar person in your corner, it makes the process easier.

Avoid Loud Noises 

Noises above the threshold of 80 decibels will damage your hearing, especially if this is over a prolonged period. Most people know this, and it might be part of the reasons for your hearing test, but it's important to avoid loud noises in preparation for your hearing test. 

Loud noises affect your hearing in the short term as well and make it more difficult for your audiologist to take a base level reading of your hearing ability. To get the most accurate reading try to avoid loud noises at least 12 hours prior to testing. 

Stay Healthy 

If you have a small cold or a seasonal allergy you might think it's not serious enough to cancel your hearing test, but this is something you're should do even if the condition is minor. Colds, flus and allergies, cause fluid to build up in the ear and affects your sinuses. You may also spread germs. 

If you are unwell and you have a hearing test booked, contact your audiologist and reschedule your appointment, it will mean your appointment runs more smoothly and you get more accurate results from the test. 

Your audiologist wants to make you feel as comfortable as possible during your hearing test. Talk with them before your appointment about any questions or concerns you may have.