Comprehensive Hearing Exam
Although we don't tend to think of it this way, hearing loss is highly unique—some people can't hear high-pitched sounds while others can't hear low-pitched sounds, for example. In many cases, hearing loss also progresses so gradually that it can be difficult to notice.
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While often dimissed as not a big deal, this is a myth. Hearing loss has far-reaching effects on your health, so getting a baseline hearing test and annual follow-up tests can help you catch it early and get the corrrect kind of hearing aid and levels of amplification.
Do you need a hearing test?
Regardless of your age or job, you should get a hearing test if you (or a loved one) feel like you're not hearing as well as you used to. Those most at risk of hearing loss are people older than 60, and workers in high-noise occupations, such as construction or restaurants.
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​If you've already had confirmed hearing loss through testing, then you should speak to your hearing care practitioner about how often you should get re-tested. Much like vision, hearing can change over time, and hearing aids also need periodic adjustments.
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When you visit Clarity Hearing Care for the first time, office staff will have you fill out a case history form. This paperwork asks you a series of questions to help the hearing healthcare professional better understand your medical and hearing history and health. There are many potential causes of hearing loss, so the case history helps determine if you could have anything inherited or genetic in your family.
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Medical conditions like allergies, head colds, ear infections and even impacted earwax (cerumen) can also contribute to hearing loss. Also, the hearing health practitioner might ask if you’ve experienced any trauma to the head or ear structures recently. Any kind of injury to the cranial area can result in temporary or permanent hearing damage.
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Your hearing healthcare professional may also ask about your exposure to loud noises or if you work in a loud environment. Noise-induced hearing loss is very common in our sound-filled world.
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Finally, your hearing health professional might want to discuss the symptoms you are experiencing and how they are affecting your daily life. They will want to understand your lifestyle and the types of work, hobbies and social situations that are important to you. Keep in mind that hearing loss can be exhausting, so even problems like fatigue might be related.
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After your hearing health history is complete, the in-depth hearing test can begin.