In the first few minutes of your audiology appointment before the actual hearing tests begin, the audiologist will carry out a number of checks. Here’s a summary of what your audiologist will do and why each check is important.
Your Medical and Medication History
Your current medicines – some medicines like certain antibiotics, chemotherapy and very high doses of aspirin can affect your hearing. It is also very important that the audiologist knows about any previous hearing problems or surgery on your ears as well as any medical conditions that you have.
Your Noise Exposure History
All tests leave a specific ‘fingerprint’ on a hearing test. For noise exposure, this can be easily identified, and the audiologist will use your history to work out whether any hearing loss is due to noise. Other exposures, such as age, otitis media with effusion (glue ear) or medications can also cause specific patterns of hearing loss.
Recent Ear Pain, Discharge, or Illness
Some temporary changes in hearing may also occur as a result of recent illness such as a cold, recent ear infection or recent blockage of the Eustachian tube. It is usually best to postpone hearing tests during these times as the results would not be reliable.
The Otoscope Examination
The Otoscope Examination. An otoscope is a small instrument that looks like a tube with a light and a lens on the end. The audiologist will look into your ear canal to check for a number of things such as excess wax, redness, or even fluid behind the eardrum. The NHS provides more information on how a hearing test is conducted, including the use of an otoscope as part of the test.
Tinnitus and Balance Questions
A person who suffers from tinnitus or who has problems with their balance will require further testing which would not typically be included in a standard hearing test. If you are looking for an appointment locally then Hearing Test Cheltenham details what local providers of hearing tests can offer.
These initial steps mean that the actual test will more accurately show the true state of your hearing and not be skewed by one particular day.