Whether the subject is math, English, safety or hearing, test anxiety is a companion to many people’s lives. It is normal to feel anxiety before an upcoming hearing test, but learning what to expect and practicing a few relaxation techniques can help prepare you for a calm, easy-going test experience.
What Happens During a Hearing Test?
Most hearing tests follow similar steps, including:
- You will sit in a soundproof room wearing headphones or earplugs.
- The connected device will send sounds of various volumes and pitches into one ear at a time.
- You will raise your hand or indicate in some way that you have heard the sound.
- The test administrator will use the results to determine how your ears respond to specific frequencies and volumes.
In addition to a hearing test, your provider may conduct a tympanometry test to determine how well your eardrum moves. During the tympanometry test, a small probe will push air into each ear to measure eardrum movement.
Why Are Hearing Tests Important?
Hearing loss affects approximately 20% of the global population. While hearing loss cannot be cured, early treatment can help minimize its adverse impact on your life and carve the way to better understanding, tinnitus management and more. Having your hearing tested regularly, even before you notice symptoms of hearing loss, is essential in establishing baseline measurements. With baseline measurements, your provider will be able to see hearing changes more accurately and make informed treatment decisions.
Relaxation Techniques Before Your Hearing Test
Everybody needs a little destressing from time to time. If an upcoming hearing test is causing stress or worry, consider employing one of the following relaxation techniques leading up to your test:
- Meditation and yoga can help you find a calm state of mind. Consider taking a class at Kodawari Studio before your hearing test to help soothe your nerves.
- Switch out your morning coffee for a green or herbal tea. While caffeine helps perk you up in the morning, switching it out on test day may help calm some jitters.
- Do something you enjoy. Read your favorite book, watch your favorite movie or get takeout from your favorite restaurant to destress and find a little fun in the experience.
- Ask your audiologist to walk you through the steps prior to the test.
By learning about the steps of your hearing test, reminding yourself of the benefits of treatment and employing some relaxation techniques, you can ensure the best test day possible. To learn more about hearing loss or schedule a test with one of our specialists, contact Kampsen Hearing today.