3 FAQs About Hearing Tests

Going for a hearing test can make you feel a bit nervous. If you've never had one before and don't know what to expect, you're entering an unfamiliar situation. You might also be worried that a hearing test will identify a problem with your hearing. If you're nervous, the best thing you can do is be as informed as possible. You might have a range of questions that you want to ask before you even take the step of booking an appointment for a hearing test. Put yourself more at ease and get a better understanding of how your hearing test will take place with the following answers to frequently asked questions.

Where do I go for a hearing test?

The best place to have your hearing evaluated is at your local audiologist’s office. The audiologist has the training and knowledge to not only evaluate your hearing, but determine a cause and solution. The audiologist is the most experienced professional in terms of hearing testing.

How much do hearing tests cost?

Cost is obviously a concern for many people when they need a hearing test. Before you make an appointment, check to see if your insurance covers hearing tests. You might need to get your hearing tested somewhere specific for it to be covered. Many insurance providers will cover a regular test, but make sure you check to see if copays and deductibles apply. If your insurance doesn't cover your hearing test, the cost can vary a lot. It's also important to remember that if you require hearing aids or any treatment, it will help you a lot if your insurance will cover these costs.

What will happen at my hearing test?

If you're worried about having your hearing tested, there's no need to be. You can have a basic hearing test in a few minutes, but a full test will take around an hour. After speaking with an audiologist and a physical examination of your ear, three main tests will be carried out. These will test your level of hearing, the functioning of your middle ear, and the ear muscle that protects your ear. The tests involve playing different sounds into your ear, as well as increasing the pressure inside your ear to examine the eardrum and parts of the middle ear. The whole test is painless, and you will sit down with your audiologist at the end to examine the results and next steps if necessary.

If you have any questions you want to ask, make sure you ask them when you speak to your audiologist.