What to Expect During Your Appointment with an Audiologist

Whether you want to have your first hearing test or have questions about hearing aids, meeting with an audiologist is an important step to take on your path to better hearing. From running tests, diagnosing hearing loss and recommending hearing aids, your audiologist will be able to help you understand this process.

Meeting With the Audiologist

When you first meet with your audiologist, they will want to know about your expectations for treatment and what type of hearing loss you are experiencing. It would help if you came prepared to this meeting with any questions that you have about hearing loss and hearing aids.

This is also an excellent time to ask the audiologist about their experience and qualifications. The meeting with the audiologist will allow you to get to know each other and establish a rapport. This relationship is essential as you will be working together closely over the course of your treatment.

Hearing Test

An audiologist will place a small device in your ear during the hearing test called an audiometer. This machine makes soft to loud tones that help the audiologist determine what ranges of sound you can hear. The audiometer does not hurt and is like any routine doctor’s appointment.

The next step is for the audiologist to discuss your hearing test results with you. They will go over what sounds you could and couldn’t hear and ask if you have ever felt like you’ve had trouble hearing.

This conversation is essential because it helps the audiologist better understand how well you may or may not do with hearing aids. It also helps them understand how much your hearing has changed over time. If you have any questions or concerns about the hearing test, be sure to ask the audiologist. They will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Fitting And Programming of Your Hearing Aids

Your audiologist will select the most appropriate earmold or shell to fit your individual needs. They will also take measurements to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Once your new earmolds or shells are ready, your audiologist will program them specifically for your hearing loss based on your hearing test results. They will also show you how to insert and remove your hearing aids and how to clean and care for them.

After your hearing aids are programmed, you and your audiologist will work together to fine-tune the settings. This process is called “fine-tuning” or “verification.” You’ll discuss how well you hear with and without background noise and whether the overall sound quality is comfortable. Your audiologist may also adjust how loud or soft certain sounds are.

Your hearing aid fitting appointment is essential in getting your hearing sorted. You will meet with a qualified audiologist, have a hearing test, and get your new earmolds or shells fitted and programmed. Be sure to ask any questions during this appointment, as it is crucial to ensure that you get the best possible treatment for your hearing loss.