What to expect during a hearing test Adelaide depends on the type of hearing loss you are experiencing. In most cases, it is progressive and will worsen as the hearing mechanism gradually deteriorates. Hearing loss can affect almost anyone and tends to progress so slowly that it can be hard to notice until you undergo frequent checks. Even for those who have already lost their hearing, annual checkups may be important for monitoring your condition’s progression. Hearing loss has a wide range of effects on your overall health; therefore, having a regular baseline hearing check and yearly follow-up exams can help you catch it earlier. Here’s what to expect during your next checkup:
Your initial visit will include a comprehensive physical exam to determine the severity of your hearing loss and any other conditions that may be contributing to your problem. Since some hearing loss cases are mild, such as age-related loss of hearing, there is no need to perform additional diagnostic testing. Your doctor will ask about your current level of hearing health, any medication you are taking, your history of ear infections and other health conditions, and more.
Your doctor will likely recommend using hearing aids or another form of corrective therapy, such as computer software or Bluetooth devices, during your checkup. You will also want to know the status of your prescription hearing aids. Some insurance companies require that you use hearing aids with follow-up visits, usually every three months. Prescription hearing test Adelaide is usually affordable and includes no extraordinary costs or deductibles. Understand what to expect from your hearing tests before you make your decision.
Your hearing test Adelaide will also involve an evaluation of your ability to tolerate high levels of noise, known as a noise test. This is usually conducted at your local office and is typically confidential, although some insurance companies may require it as part of your pre-approval process. A noise test will determine whether or not you have a hidden hearing loss, in which case specific hearing aids may not be the most appropriate treatment for you.
Another hearing tests involve a blood test to look for abnormalities, especially if you are experiencing a sudden increase in blood pressure or have a history of allergies. If you have been exposed to loud noise, you may damage your inner ear, or you could have a disease called tinnitus. Both of these types of conditions can result in hearing loss, so the results of your blood tests will help determine which treatments will work best. Depending on the severity of your hidden hearing loss and the cause of your condition, you may qualify for hearing aids, while others will not.
During a hearing test, you will be asked various questions about your lifestyle, any medical conditions you have, and your occupational and recreational habits. You will undergo a thorough medical and audiological examination to determine the underlying causes of your hearing loss. You will also be given a thorough physical exam to determine the accuracy of your audiologist’s measurements. While these tests are generally non-intrusive, they can still cause discomfort and embarrassment, so it is crucial to prepare ahead of time by reviewing your health history and knowing what to expect during your appointment.