What to Expect During Your First Hearing Evaluation

Many people postpone their first hearing evaluation because they're uncertain about what happens during the appointment. A comprehensive hearing evaluation is the first step toward better hearing health, and understanding what to expect can help ease any concerns about your visit.

The average person waits 7-10 years from first noticing hearing difficulties before seeking professional help. During this time, communication challenges often strain relationships with family and friends, and untreated hearing loss can affect your overall well-being. At Applied Hearing Solutions, we make the evaluation process straightforward and comfortable.

Our experienced audiologists take the time to understand your unique hearing needs and concerns. We follow a methodical approach that includes detailed testing and measurements to assess your hearing ability accurately. By partnering with one of our Doctors of Audiology, you'll gain clear insights into your hearing health and learn about potential solutions tailored to your lifestyle.

Bringing a family member or friend to your appointment can be beneficial, as they often notice hearing challenges you might have adapted to over time. They can provide valuable perspective during the consultation and help you remember important details discussed during your visit.

Your First Visit to Our Office

When you arrive at Applied Hearing Solutions, you'll be greeted by our patient care team and asked to complete some paperwork about your medical history and current hearing concerns. We recommend bringing a family member or friend to your appointment, as they can provide valuable input about your hearing difficulties and help you remember important information discussed during the consultation.

Understanding Your Hearing Needs

Your audiologist will begin by asking questions about your hearing difficulties, lifestyle, and daily activities. This conversation helps us understand how hearing challenges affect your life and guides us in creating the most appropriate treatment plan. We'll discuss situations where you have trouble hearing, such as watching television, phone conversations, or social gatherings.

Physical Examination of Your Ears

Using an otoscope, your audiologist will examine your ear canals and eardrums. This visual inspection helps identify any physical issues that might affect your hearing, such as excess earwax or other blockages. If needed, we can perform professional earwax removal using various methods, including irrigation, manual removal, or microsuction, depending on your specific situation.

Comprehensive Testing in Our Sound Booth

The main portion of your hearing evaluation takes place in our sound-treated booth. This space ensures accurate test results by minimizing external noise. Here's what happens during each test:

Air Conduction Testing

You'll wear headphones or insert earphones and respond to different tones by pressing a button whenever you hear a sound. This test determines the softest sounds you can hear at different frequencies, creating a detailed map of your hearing ability.

Bone Conduction Testing

A small device placed behind your ear sends vibrations directly through your skull to your inner ear. This test helps differentiate between hearing loss caused by problems in your outer/middle ear versus your inner ear.

Speech Testing

We'll assess how well you understand speech at different volume levels. This includes:

• Speech Reception Threshold (SRT): Identifying the softest level at which you can understand two-syllable words
• Word Recognition Testing: Measuring your ability to understand single-syllable words at a comfortable volume
• Speech-in-Noise Testing: Evaluating how well you understand speech when background noise is present

Middle Ear Testing

Tympanometry measures how well your eardrum moves and helps identify any middle ear problems that might affect your hearing. This quick, painless test involves a small change in air pressure in your ear canal.

Reviewing Your Results

After completing these tests, your audiologist will explain your results using clear, easy-to-understand terms. We'll show you your audiogram, which displays your hearing levels across different frequencies, and explain what these results mean for your daily life.

If hearing loss is identified, we'll discuss:

• The type and degree of hearing loss
• How your hearing loss might affect different listening situations
• Whether hearing aids or other treatments would be beneficial
• Various treatment options based on your specific needs and lifestyle

Treatment Planning

If hearing aids are recommended, we'll explain different styles and technology levels available from leading manufacturers like Oticon Intent, Resound Nexia, Starkey Genesis AI, Widex Moment, Phonak Infinio, and Signia IX. Our recommendations focus on finding the best solution for your unique hearing needs, lifestyle, and budget.

What Sets Our Process Apart

At Applied Hearing Solutions, we follow strict Best Practice protocols for hearing aid fittings. This includes using Real Ear Measurements to verify that your hearing aids are programmed exactly to your prescription, rather than relying on manufacturer estimates. This commitment to precision ensures you receive the maximum benefit from your hearing treatment.

Time Investment

Your first appointment typically lasts about 120 minutes. This allows us to perform all necessary tests thoroughly and discuss your results and treatment options without feeling rushed. We believe taking time during this initial evaluation leads to better outcomes and higher satisfaction with treatment.

Follow-Up Care and Support

After your hearing evaluation, we create a personalized care plan that extends beyond just the initial appointment. If hearing aids are part of your treatment plan, we schedule several follow-up visits during your first year to ensure optimal performance and comfort.

Your Success Plan

Our structured care program includes regular check-ups where we:

• Fine-tune your hearing aids based on your real-world experiences
• Address any concerns or questions about your devices
• Clean and check your hearing aids to maintain their performance
• Provide guidance on daily care and maintenance
• Make adjustments as your hearing needs change

Common Questions After Your Evaluation

Many patients have questions after receiving their test results. Here are some typical concerns we address:

Do I need hearing aids right away?

If hearing loss is identified, the timing of treatment depends on several factors, including the degree of hearing loss and its impact on your daily life. Your audiologist will help you make an informed decision based on your specific situation.

What if my hearing changes?

Hearing can change over time, which is why we recommend annual evaluations. Your treatment plan can be adjusted as needed to accommodate these changes. Our programming software allows us to make precise adjustments to your hearing aids as your needs evolve.

How long does it take to adjust to hearing aids?

The adjustment period varies for each person, but most adapt within a few weeks. During this time, we work closely with you to ensure comfort and satisfaction. Our structured follow-up program helps you navigate this adjustment period successfully.

Ongoing Support

We believe in building lasting relationships with our patients. Our team is always available to:

• Answer questions about your hearing aids or hearing health
• Provide emergency repairs when needed
• Offer guidance on new technology options
• Help you maximize the benefits of your hearing devices

Insurance and Payment

Many insurance plans cover hearing evaluations. Our team can help verify your coverage before your appointment and explain any associated costs. We'll provide clear information about pricing and payment options for both the evaluation and any recommended treatment.

Schedule Your Hearing Evaluation

If you've noticed changes in your hearing or if loved ones have mentioned concerns about your hearing, don't wait to schedule an evaluation. Contact our office at 602-877-0000 to schedule your comprehensive hearing evaluation. Our experienced audiologists will guide you through each step of the process, helping you understand your hearing health and exploring solutions that fit your lifestyle.