Realizing you may be experiencing hearing loss is a startling discovery for many people. You may not know who to turn to or what steps to take. One of your first priorities should be to make an appointment with a hearing specialist for a hearing test.
What is a Hearing Specialist?
Hearing specialists are also called audiologists. They examine the ears and test hearing. They diagnose hearing loss and the reason it has occurred. They then devise a treatment plan and work with the patient to find the option most suitable for their specific needs.
How Do I Find a Hearing Specialist?
Start by contacting your primary care physician. He may suggest you schedule an appointment with him first so he can examine you to rule out possible medical reasons for your hearing loss, such as an ear or sinus infection. If he does not find reason for the hearing loss, he can offer you a list of recommended hearing specialists.
Also, check with your insurance company for a list of specialists in your network. Ask the insurance company if you need to follow a specific referral or pre-approval process in order for the visit to be covered.
Support groups for people who have experienced hearing loss are a great resource. Members are usually very willing to make recommendations and share their experiences. You may even make new friends to support during this difficult transition.
What Should I Look for in a Hearing Specialist?
Your hearing specialist will be an important member of our medical care team. You want someone you feel comfortable talking to and trust to give you the best possible care. An office located in a convenient location to your home or office with hours that work for your schedule is also important. Look for a specialist that deals with a variety of hearing aid brands so that you have a large selection available to you if that is the needed treatment.
What Can I Expect from the Initial Appointment?
A thorough case history will be taken pertaining to your hearing history and medical conditions. Have you been exposed to loud noises or had any major ear infections. You will be asked about tinnitus and dizziness. The audiologist will then do a thorough evaluation of your hearing abilities in both quiet and in noise in addition to evaluating your speech understanding. All of this is easy and painless. Following the evaluation, the audiologist will explain the results to you and make appropriate recommendations. If hearing aids are recommended many audiologists have demos for you to try either in or out of the office. It is the audiologist's responsibility to help you decide what technology, style and cost suits both your lifestyle, hearing loss and budget.
Paula Schwartz is a registered audiologist by the state of Minnesota, with over 24 years of experience in serving the hearing needs of the greater Minneapolis area. Her diverse background as a manager for a major manufacturer and a clinical audiologist in private practice give her a comprehensive understanding of the needs of the hearing impaired. Dr. Schwartz specializes in the latest technological advancements in hearing assessment and rehabilitation, and is committed to helping people hear by educating them on available solutions to their hearing needs. For up-to-date hearing aid information [http://hearing-aids-edina-mn.com/hearing-aid-articles/] visit Paula Schwartz blog.
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