Preparing For Your Bristol Hearing Test.
Before your Bristol hearing test there are a few things you can do in the days before your appointment to help get the best results from your test.
In short
To get the most accurate results from your hearing test, avoid loud noise for at least 24 hours beforehand, have any earwax cleared a few days before, skip caffeine on the day, get a good night’s sleep and note down two or three situations where your hearing has let you down.
Avoid Loud Noise Beforehand
Avoid loud noise for at least 24 hours before your test as this can cause temporary hearing fatigue. This is also known as hearing tiredness. This could be due to visiting concerts, using noisy power tools, listening to loud music on headphones or working on a noisy building site. Try to keep quiet the day before your appointment.
Check Your Ears Are Clear of Wax
Also make sure your ears are free from any blockages of earwax as this can muffle sounds and affect what the audiologist can pick up during your hearing test. If you feel that your ears are full or your hearing has been dull then get them checked and cleared a few days before your appointment, not on the morning of the test.
Skip Caffeine on the Day
It is well known that caffeine can have an alerting effect, and this can be very problematic when trying to sit quietly and concentrate during parts of the test. For this reason, it’s best to avoid consuming caffeine (found in coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, etc) the day of your test and instead opt for water or herbal teas.
Rest Well the Night Before
Fatigue also affects how your brain processes sounds, and it is much harder to concentrate when you are tired. So it is really important that you have a good night’s sleep before your test.
Write Down Problem Situations
Take a moment to jot down 2 or 3 scenarios where you feel your hearing has let you down recently. These could be situations where you have difficulty hearing in noisy places such as in a café, when watching TV with family and friends, on the phone with work colleagues etc. When you attend your Bristol hearing test the audiologist will be able to use this information to give you more relevant advice and guidance on managing your hearing loss.
There is more on Hearing Test Bristol at //www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/bristol/.
Preparation is key to getting the most accurate results from your Bristol hearing test. For everyday ways to look after your ears, read our article on protecting the health of your ears.
FAQs
How long does a hearing test take?
It varies between providers and depends on how many checks are needed, so ask how long to allow when you book. Leave time afterwards to talk through your results and any next steps.
Does a hearing test hurt?
No. The audiologist looks into your ears with a small light, then you listen to sounds through headphones and respond when you hear them. Nothing about it should be painful.
Should I bring someone with me?
It can help. A family member or friend can help you remember the advice you are given, and can describe how your hearing affects everyday conversations at home.
Can I get a hearing test on the NHS?
Yes. Your GP can refer you to an NHS audiology service, and many high street and independent providers also offer hearing tests.