Q&A

Subject: Passing hearing test

From: C

I am applying for a job and just completed a hearing test for which they say I barely passed. I am set up to go to a hearing specialist for another review and must pass this additional review in order to get my job appointment. I desperately want this appt. What can I do before I see a hearing specialist to be sure my ears are clean and receptive to the testing procedure? I am 29 years of age and in perfect health otherwise - I just seemed to have trouble passing the test - I can hear just fine in everyday life.

First, there really is a possibility that you DO have a hearing loss. Onset is usually gradual and can, at first, truly not interfere with your daily life. Allowing you to proceed to employment if you do not meet their criteria could be a hazard to you or to carrying out the responsibilities of your new job. If there is truly a loss, monitor it to see whether it is rapidly progressive or generally stable. I usually recommend retest in 6 months, then yearly.

Setting that aside and assuming you truly have excellent hearing and want to optimize the test situation, consider the following: Avoid exposure to loud sounds (woodworking machines, lawn mower, heavy equipment, etc.) at least 16 hours before testing. Get a good night's sleep; hearing tests are stressful when you are trying to hear those tiny sounds. Avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages as they may aggravate Tinnitus. Limit salt and high sodium foods as they promote fluid retention. Avoid milk and mild products several days before testing as they tend to produce phlegm.

Perhaps most importantly, ask the examiner to inspect your ears for wax and any other type of obstruction. If any is observed, cancel the appointment until you have your physician clean them. Do not try using over the counter preparations. If not needed, they can have a drying effect on the skin of the ear canal. If you do have wax, home remedies should be approved by your physician before you use them. An unsuspected hole in your eardrum could carry that material into the middle ear cavity and then you really might have trouble passing the test.

In general, the good health measures you probably already do are good for maximizing your hearing...exercise in moderation, low fat diet, attend to any general health problems like diabetes, etc.

Good luck on the test and relax!

Solveig