General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Sudden or rapidly worsening hearing loss, or reduced hearing after a head injury, needs urgent hospital assessment. After intense noise, seek urgent hospital assessment if the hearing loss persists. Reduced hearing with pain, a fever above 38.5 °C, pus or blood, dizziness, tinnitus or facial paralysis needs medical advice the same day. Do not wait for a hearing-aid adjustment with these signs.
Before a trial of prescribed hearing aids, the hearing-aid professional assesses your difficulties, needs and history and takes hearing measurements. Prepare examples of situations important to you: conversation in quiet or noise, work and communication at home. These needs help the discussion about the proposed device.
The pathway described by Ameli includes a trial before agreeing to purchase. Clarify how it is organised, appointments during this period and how to report your observations. Note the situations in which hearing or understanding remains difficult so you can discuss them when you return.
Once the purchase is confirmed, fitting includes trials, checks and gradual device adjustments. Describe listening difficulties concretely during these sessions: the context, sounds involved and difficulty experienced. Ask what will be checked and how to assess the changes with the hearing-aid professional.
Learning covers use, handling and maintenance of the hearing aid. Ask for an explanation specific to your model and a demonstration of the steps you will need to perform. Keep its instructions with the device and prepare questions that arise as you use it.
Checks continue after initial fitting: hearing may change, settings may be disturbed or maintenance may be needed. Clarify the next appointments. New symptoms such as vertigo or tinnitus should also be discussed with your doctor; device follow-up and medical assessment complement each other.
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Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.