What Happens During Your First Audiology Appointment?

According to WHO statistics, over one billion people around the world experience hearing loss – and only a small percentage of those who need hearing aids actually seek out the professional help of an audiologist. If you have decided to take the first step and visit an audiologist, you're already well on your way to regaining your hearing and starting to enjoy your life to the fullest again. 

However, the first appointment with an audiologist can be intimidating. While it is common to feel overwhelmed, it is essential to arrive at the office prepared so as to make the most out of the time you have with your audiologist. Here are a few handy tips to get started – but don’t forget that you can always call your audiologist prior to your appointment and make sure you are ready when the day comes!

Be ready with your medical history and lifestyle information.

One of the most important aspects you need to dedicate your attention to before your appointment is your medical and lifestyle information. Most audiologists will ask you about your medical history to understand whether there are underlying conditions such as cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, diabetes or tumors. 

These, among other conditions, might be the causes behind your hearing loss or tinnitus. You can provide your audiologist with all the relevant history by having the medical documents released by your doctors at hand. 

You should also communicate some relevant lifestyle factors – such as if you are constantly exposed to loud noises due to your job or hobbies. Your lifestyle – including whether you smoke or consume alcohol – and your diet can greatly impact your hearing.

This simple tip eliminates all the guesswork and allows your audiologist to make precise and accurate decisions. 

Have a list of medications you take with you

Certain medications are lifesavings, and they have given a chance to individuals to regain control over their lifestyle. Nonetheless, certain drugs and drug combinations have been seen to be detrimental to your hearing and ear health. 

These medications – which are often called ototoxic – might include certain antibiotics and tumor drugs. Having a list of the medications you currently take, or you have been taking in the past with you can help your audiologist diagnose your hearing problems more accurately.

Know what to expect

The first visit with an audiologist won’t usually last over one hour. During this time, your audiologist will ask questions about the medication you take, your lifestyle and your medical history – as well as inquiring about your hearing condition. 

Once you have answered these critical questions, your audiologist will take some simple tests to measure your hearing and you will discuss the best solutions for your needs. 

While this appointment is usually relatively simple, it is always recommendable to have a friend or loved one with you for support. Additionally, your audiologist will likely pass on a lot of information and suggestions – and sharing it and discussing it with someone else might make the appointment easier. 

Be ready to talk about your issues or concerns

For many people experiencing hearing loss or tinnitus, these conditions are perceived as a source of embarrassment, annoyance or inconvenience. Even if you have been avoiding these conversations until now, you should not hold back during a visit with your audiologist. 

Describing the symptoms and lifestyle changes you have noticed is necessary for your healthcare professional to diagnose your hearing condition and offer you the best solution for your needs. 

Research the different types of hearing aids

Naturally, your audiologist will show you all the different hearing aids types and recommend the best one for your lifestyle. However, investigating and researching the different solutions before your appointment can help you be confident and informed on your choices during your meeting. 

Write down any question you might have

Your first appointment with an audiologist is an essential step in regaining the life quality you wish to have. While you should only be excited about this step, you should also prepare any questions you want to ask your audiologist. This will help you make the most out of your time with an expert and put any doubt and concerns you might have to rest. 

Get in touch with Gavin Audiology and Hearing Aids and schedule your first appointment today.

Hearing problems are becoming increasingly common, mainly because they are often a consequence of lifestyle factors such as medication, noisy environments and the use of headphones. 

Like in any field, prevention is the key to preserve your hearing and not experiencing conditions such as tinnitus. Your audiologist can offer you guidance on how to improve your lifestyle to protect your hearing or find the best hearing aid for your needs, find out more by visiting us at Gavin Audiology and Hearing Aids or contact us at (914) 610-3440.