Are you struggling to hear conversations or missing out on the sounds around you? You’re in good company. Hearing loss affects over 44 million adults in the United States.
An audiology consultation with the team at Sharp Hearing Care Professionals can provide the solutions you need. During your consultation, our specialists assess your hearing, determine the extent of any hearing loss, and discuss potential treatment options, such as hearing aids or assistive listening devices.
Imagine being able to effortlessly hear birdsong, enjoy live music, or fully participate in conversations with loved ones. Here’s how to prepare for your audiology consultation so you can tune in to a better life.
Before your appointment, it’s important to gather as much information about your medical history as possible. This helps our team understand which factors may be affecting your hearing.
Make sure you have these essential details ready for your consultation:
Genetic factors play a significant role in hearing loss, accounting for 50% of all cases. If you’re unsure about your family history, take some time to ask your parents, siblings, grandparents, or other relatives about hearing loss.
Some medications have side effects that affect hearing and balance, known as ototoxicity. Certain antibiotics, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs are known to be ototoxic. Prior to your consultation, make a list of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you’re taking now or have taken in the past.
Certain illnesses or injuries can impact your hearing. For example, ear infections, head trauma, or exposure to ototoxic medications can damage your inner ear. Information about your past and current health conditions can give us valuable insight into your diagnosis.
Over time, prolonged exposure to loud noise can damage the delicate cells in the inner ear and contribute to hearing loss. Think about any activities you participate in that involve loud sounds, such as working in a noisy factory, playing a musical instrument, or attending concerts.
By doing some basic research, you can prepare to ask informed questions during your consultation. Our trained specialists provide professional guidance so you can make the best decision for your needs and wants.
It can be helpful to look into the different options available to address your hearing needs prior to your appointment. This may include:
There’s a wide variety of hearing aids available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Take some time to read about the different types of hearing aids we offer at Sharp Hearing Care Professionals — a variety of sizes and styles from seven manufacturers — and consider your preferences in terms of style, technology, and features.
Other forms of assistive technology can improve your hearing in specific situations. These devices can be used in conjunction with hearing aids or on their own.
One of the best ways to make the most of your audiology consultation with our specialists is to come prepared with a list of questions. Here are some examples of questions you may want to consider asking during your appointment:
If you’re missing out on the sounds around you, don’t wait to address your hearing concerns. Call or click to schedule an audiology consultation today with the team at Sharp Hearing Care Professionals in Oxnard, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, and Tarzana, California.
