Consider asking these questions during your first visit to a new audiologist.
You may have already begun thinking about the questions you want to ask if you’re planning to visit an audiologist for the first time. As ideas comes to mind, consider jotting them down so you have a record of the information you’d like to cover in your appointment. When developing your list, consider incorporating these important questions to ask your audiologist during your first visit:
- What should I expect during my appointment?
- How often do I need to come back for re-checks?
- What type of hearing loss do I have?
- Do both ears have the same hearing loss?
- What can I do to prevent hearing loss?
- What are my options for hearing assistance?
- Which hearing aid is best for me?
Learn more about each of these suggested questions to ask your audiologist below.
What should I expect during my appointment?
If you feel a little nervous about attending your first hearing health appointment with a new audiologist, learning what to expect may help. From the anticipated duration of your appointments to which types of hearing loss tests your audiologist may suggest and when, the answers to these questions can help you understand and anticipate what is coming next.
How often do I need to come back for re-checks?
At a minimum, most hearing health professionals advocate for annual hearing tests. However, more frequent appointments may be needed depending on your personal hearing health needs. Beyond routine visits, your audiologist may also encourage you to make an appointment whenever you experience a hearing issue or are concerned that your hearing loss is changing.
What type of hearing loss do I have?
While some people tend to think of hearing loss in general terms, there are actually three different types of hearing loss – conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. Asking your audiologist about which one you’re experiencing can help inform treatment options and prevent future hearing loss.
Do both ears have the same hearing loss?
Just like range of sight can differ between your two eyes, so can the degree and type of hearing loss vary between both your ears. In fact, some research indicates that the left and right ear hear differently from one another – with the left ear better at receiving information from music, emotion, and intuition and the right ear more tuned in to speech and logic. Asking your audiologist questions about how hearing loss affects your left and right ears differently may shed some light on your personal hearing loss experience.
What can I do to prevent hearing loss?
Preventative steps can help protect your hearing and prevent further hearing damage. Your audiologist will be able to provide specific hearing loss prevention techniques for your unique lifestyle, from wearing custom-fitted hearing protection to suggestions for navigating a noisy workplace or environment.
What are my options for hearing assistance?
When it comes to hearing loss devices and assistive listening technology, there is a wide variety of options to consider. While hearing aids are certainly the most commonly known assistive listening device, captioned telephones, induction loop systems, and other technologies can also enhance daily activities. Your audiologist will be well-suited to suggest different technologies available and possible solutions based on your unique hearing needs and lifestyle.
Which hearing aid is best for me?
Approximately 16% of Americans aged 20-69 and 30% of Americans aged 70 and older have used hearing aids. If you decide you’d like to use this device, your audiologist can also suggest which one is best for you. Once you’ve found and fitted your new hearing aids, review these first-time user tips to keep them in top condition.
Open communication with your hearing health professional is essential. These seven questions to ask your audiologist can keep you informed and confident about making decisions for your hearing health. For more helpful advice and tips for your hearing health, continue to our hearing loss blog.
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