Before your hearing test, you may have questions. That’s normal. We want you to be as comfortable as possible during your hearing test. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the most commonly asked questions about your hearing test and hearing aids. Don’t see your question answered? Give us a call. We’re here to help.

How often should you get your hearing tested?

It depends on your age and occupation. If your job exposes you to loud noise, you should have your hearing checked at least once a year. If you are in good health and under 60, have a hearing test about every three to five years. Once you reach the age of 60, begin annual hearing tests.

How do you prepare for a hearing test?

Jot down key points about your medical history. Include any history of ear infections, family members with hearing loss and a list of medications and supplements you take. Avoid loud noises for about 12 hours before the test and make sure your ears are clean of wax. That’s it!

What are the tests like?

There isn’t any part of the hearing test that hurts. There are no needles. After your medical history, the audiologist will look into your ears. Then, a small instrument will be placed in your ear canal to check how your eardrum is working. A vibrating probe may be placed on the bone behind the ear to check bone conduction. During the pure tone test and speech recognition tests, you will hear tones or conversation and give the proper signal, as instructed by the audiologist.

When do I get the results?

As the audiologist performs the tests, the results will be recorded at that time. By the time the test is over you will have your results. Hearing test results are recorded on a strip of paper called an audiogram. You’ll have test results for each ear. The audiologist will then review the results and interpret them for you. If the tests indicate that you have hearing loss, the audiologist can explain the amount of hearing loss and the type of hearing loss.

Does every hearing test end up with a pitch for hearing aids?

No. The audiologist recommends the best course of action based on the test results. If you have no hearing loss, you’ll be congratulated and told how to protect your hearing to keep it safe. If the hearing test indicates that you have conductive hearing loss, it is likely caused by a medical condition. A course of medical treatment will be recommended or you may be directed to an otolaryngologist or other medical professional for treatment. If you have sensorineural hearing loss, you may be prescribed hearing aids or other assistive hearing devices.

How do you select the right hearing aids?

If you need to purchase hearing aids, the audiologist will go over the different styles that will work for your level of hearing loss and lifestyle. There are many models and features available, making it easy to find an option within your budget.