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If you’re struggling to hear the TV and voices sound muffled, it’s important to visit a hearing centre for a hearing test. Examinations are quick and hassle-free, so here’s a rundown of what you can expect. You’ll meet a hearing aid audiologist When you first arrive for your appointment, you’ll be greeted by a hearing aid audiologist, who will ask you questions about your day-to-day lifestyle and your general health. You’ll then be asked about your hearing and will be given the chance to explain what’s been going on in detail. Mention any symptoms you’ve experienced and tell the specialist anything that’s been bothering you. If you’re worried about forgetting vital information, ask a close friend or relative to come to the appointment with you – as this is perfectly acceptable. Your hearing will be tested The hearing aid audiologist will then examine your outer ear on both sides to make sure everything looks ok. They’ll check for excess wax and will look out for any infection that might be affecting your hearing. Most specialists will then give you a pair of headphones and will ask you to press a button when you hear a sound. The noises will be varied and played into each ear individually, so that the audiologist can build an accurate picture of your hearing. The test will then be repeated with a slightly different headset to make sure the tiny hair-like cells inside the ear are functioning properly. The specialist will work out how well you can hear at different frequencies and will explain the results on the graph. If you feel baffled by the information don’t be afraid to ask. Hearing aids explained If a hearing aid could improve your quality of life, the hearing specialist will talk through your options with you. They’ll explain the difference between all models and will help you decide which device would best suit you. If you opt for one that goes inside the ear, a mould of your ear will usually be taken at the appointment. The process is simple and will only take a couple of minutes on each side – so there’s really nothing to panic about. The moulds will then be sent off to specialised technicians who will create your hearing aid. Follow up appointment Hearing aids take a couple of weeks to make, so don’t forget to make a follow up appointment to see if they fit properly. Once you’re happy that everything feels comfortable, you can then choose a number of accessories, ranging from directional microphones to devices that will help you out on the telephone. Many hearing aids even come with a remote control, so you’ll be able to adjust the settings discreetly. A hearing test might seem daunting, but there’s really nothing to worry about.
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