You have already taken an important first step by planning to visit a hearing center to address the problem you are experiencing. The next step is to learn about what you can expect when you make your visit so that you are as well prepared as possible. According to a study conducted recently by John's Hopkins University, about 26 million Americans age 50 and older have experienced some sort of auditory loss. However, according to the same study, less than half of those have chosen to have a test to determine the nature of their problem. It is very important to do so, because having your problem addressed can lead to a substantially improved quality of life. Just as important as taking that next step, however, is learning as much as you can before you visit a hearing center. Here is some information to make you more prepared and comfortable before your visit. Terminology to Understand The study of the inner, outer, and middle ear is audiology. A professional who diagnoses and treats auditory loss problems is known as an audiologist. This person has graduated from an accredited university and has, in most instances, also served a one-year internship. These professionals not only conduct tests, they also help determine whether auditory loss has occurred due to other health conditions. They also custom fit and program listening devices. An audiogram is the chart that the results of our test will be plotted on. It shows the different measurements taken during your evaluation, including frequency and loudness. Your audiologist will analyze the results, determine the degree of auditory loss you have suffered, and recommend the best course of treatment to address the loss. Do Some Legwork If you have friends, family members, or co-workers who have gone through the same type of problem that you're suffering from, ask them what hearing center they went to for their test. Find out if they would recommend the one they visited. Also, ask them to tell you how they were treated, and if they were happy with the quality of the care that they received. If there was anything that made them unhappy, have them share that with you as well. Talk to your family physician if you have one and see if he or she may have any recommendations. Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions One of the things many people fail to do when it comes to visiting a hearing center is asking as many questions as they can. If you ask the following, you will have the best chance of knowing whether or not you are making the right choice. Ask if there is an audiologist on staff, and if so, how many there are. Ask if you will be seeing an audiologist or an assistant during your test. If you should need a listening device, find out the variety offered through the location you are visiting. Being proactive now can make your hearing center visit much more comfortable. A Wyoming hearing center like Miracle Ear is the place to get help for your ears. Learn more at http://www.miracle-ear-wyoming.com.
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