Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
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Getting a hearing test is a pivotal step toward improved communication and overall well-being. It’s one of the best ways to find out more about your hearing health and hearing needs and explore all your treatment options.
However, navigating the process can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of what to expect or what questions to ask. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the essential questions to ask during a hearing test. You’ll be ready to advocate for your hearing health and make informed decisions about your care.
Understanding the Purpose of a Hearing Test
A hearing test, also known as an audiometric evaluation, is a comprehensive assessment of your auditory function. This test is performed by a qualified hearing health professional. The test measures your ability to hear sounds across different frequencies and intensities, identifies any hearing loss or abnormalities, and helps determine the most appropriate treatment options for your unique needs.
During the test your hearing health professional will also ask you some questions about your hearing health history, your lifestyle, and when you have the most trouble hearing.
Essential Questions to Ask Before the Test
Here are a few questions you might want to ask before your hearing test:
- What Can I Expect During the Hearing Test? Understanding the testing process can help alleviate any anxiety or uncertainty. Ask your hearing health specialist or office staff to walk you through the steps involved, including the types of tests that will be administered and how long the appointment is expected to last.
- Do I Need to Prepare for the Test? Inquire about any specific preparations or instructions you need to follow before the test, such as collecting relevant medical history.
- Will the Test Be Painful or Uncomfortable? Many individuals worry about discomfort during the test, so it’s important to address any of your concerns upfront. Your hearing health professional can reassure you that the test is painless and non-invasive. During the test, you’ll just use headphones and respond to various sounds.
Questions To Ask During the Test
Here are some questions you might want to ask during your hearing test:
- What Type of Hearing Test Are You Performing? There are several types of hearing tests, including pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, tympanometry, and otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing. Understanding the purpose of each test can help you understand your hearing test.
- Can You Explain the Results of My Hearing Test? After completing the tests, your hearing health professional will go over your results. Ask as many clarifying questions as you need to. Understanding your results will help you to make informed decisions about your hearing health.
- What Are My Treatment Options? Depending on your test results, your hearing health specialist may recommend various treatment options, such as hearing aids, assistive listening devices, cochlear implants, or auditory rehabilitation programs. Discuss the pros and cons of each option, as well as any associated costs or insurance coverage.
Questions About Hearing Aid Options
Are you considering hearing aids? Here are a few questions to ask:
- Do I Need Hearing Aids? If your test shows a hearing loss, inquire about the potential benefits of hearing aids for your specific hearing needs. Your hearing health professional can provide personalized recommendations based on your lifestyle, communication goals, and hearing preferences.
- What Types of Hearing Aids Are Available? There are many types of hearing aids available, including behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), and completely-in-canal (CIC) models. Ask more questions to understand the differences between each type and determine the most suitable option for you.
- How Do I Choose the Right Hearing Aid? Selecting the right hearing aid involves considering factors such as your hearing loss severity, lifestyle, budget, and cosmetic preferences. Your hearing health professional can guide you through the selection process and provide recommendations based on your individual needs.
What Are the Next Steps?
After the test, discuss the next steps with your hearing health professional, including scheduling follow-up appointments, exploring treatment options, and addressing any additional questions or concerns you may have.
By asking the right questions before, during, and after a hearing test, you can get all the information you need to make the best decisions for your hearing health.