If you’re ready to visit the audiologist for the first time, one of the main components of this visit is the case history form. When you fill out this form, it gives the audiologist a better idea of your hearing health and how it is currently impacting your life. This history is important because, after your hearing tests and the audiogram are generated, the information you have provided as part of your case file will give your hearing health practitioner a more complete picture. Then, he or she will be able to understand your needs and assess the best hearing loss solutions for you.
One thing you can do to prepare for your first audiologist appointment is to bring a copy of your health history, which should also include information on family members’ overall health or major health issues. In some case, hearing health professionals will ask you to print and fill out the form before attending so you have ample time.
Case history form
Here’s an example of a case history form from the University of Hawaii Speech and Hearing Clinic. These are some things you can expect to answer on this form:
General hearing questions
- How long have you noticed your hearing loss?
- Was it sudden or gradual onset?
- Have you been exposed to occupational or recreation noise?
- Have you ever had your hearing tested?
- Have you seen a physician for your hearing?
- Does hearing loss run in your family?
- Which is your better hearing ear?
- How does difficulty hearing affect your life? (trouble on the phone, during conversations, while watching TV, hearing the doorbell, etc.)
- Have you worn hearing aids in the past?
Medical
- Have you had earaches or pain in the last 90 days?
- Do you have ringing, buzzing, whooshing or roaring sounds in your ears?
- Do you ever have problems with balance or dizziness?
- Have you ever had surgery on or near your ears?
- Have you had any of these health problems? (This will be followed by a list, including allergies, concussion, diabetes, measles, seizures and several others.)
Other
The case history will also inquire about what others have said about your hearing. Here are some examples:
- Have others said you often speak too loudly in a conversation?
- Have you been told that your TV volume is much too loud?
- Do you frequently have to ask people to repeat themselves?
- Is it more difficult for you to hear women’s and children’s voices?
- Does it often sound like people are mumbling?
It’s also important to bring a list of your current medications to the appointment, as some are known to have ototoxic properties.
