An appointment with an audiologist is like an appointment with any other medical specialist. To get the most out of your appointment, you should be prepared. To help, we’ve put together this list of questions to help you remember the key points to cover.

Understanding the types of hearing loss

Not all hearing loss is the same. There different types of hearing loss. If the audiologist tells you that you have hearing loss, be sure to ask what type of hearing loss you have, so you can better understand your condition. There are three different types of hearing loss:

  • Sudden hearing loss
  • Noise-induced hearing loss
  • Sensorineural hearing loss

The type of hearing loss you have may help determine what model of hearing aid you may need.

Questions about hearing loss

If the audiologist identifies a hearing loss, here are some specific questions to ask to better understand your condition:

  • Is the hearing loss permanent?
  • Are both of my ears affected or just one ear?
  • Will I continue to lose my hearing?
  • Will hearing aids help with hearing loss?
  • What can I expect from hearing aids?

Different types of hearing aids

If the audiologist identifies hearing loss, you may be told that hearing aids should be used. Hearing aids are the most common form of treatment when it comes to hearing loss and comes in a variety of styles and models. Three of the main body types include:

  • Behind-the-ear models
  • In-the-ear models
  • In-the-canal models

Questions about hearing aids

The job of the audiologist is to recommend the hearing aid that will best help you live with your hearing loss. Hearing aids are an important investment, so you want to make sure you get the most benefit for the dollar you spend. Here are questions to ask about hearing aids.

  • Will this style of hearing aid work with my lifestyle?
  • What features must I have and what features aren’t so important?
  • Do I need to wear one hearing aid or two hearing aids? Why?
  • Do I need a telecoil?
  • Do I need Bluetooth compatibility?

Questions about fitting and warranty

Hearing aids are an investment in hearing better. While they are not inexpensive, they should last you many years and are something you’ll utilize day after day. Like any other large ticket purchase, you need to know exactly what you will receive, what services are included and what warranty is offered if there is a problem. Consider asking these questions:

  • Do you offer a trial period? How long is it? How does it work?
  • What is the warranty? What does the warranty cover?
  • What happens if the hearing aids need repairs?
  • What maintenance do these hearing aids require?

Hearing aids need periodic replacement of parts like batteries and tubes. Ask what the annual cost of these items will be or if your audiologist offers some kind of package.

Your audiologist is your partner in better hearing and will be more than happy to answer your questions to ensure you get the best fit possible.