hearing test

[Lizard]

Hey fellow formuites, jsut a quick question for y'all.  I have some residual hearing in my ear and moderate tinnitus, but I haven't had my hearing tested since a month or two after the surgery.  I'm now coming up on two years and I wonder if I should be having my hearing tested as well?  I ask because I feel like my hearing has diminished more since surgery and I'm concerned, and paritally nerves because its tube o gloom time again...
Thanks!!!
Liz

[sunfish]

When I initially learned I had hearing loss (before I learned it was due to AN), the audiologist recommended that I get a new hearing test yearly.

[Kencutus]

AN or not, you should get your hearing tested, yearly.  I do get tested every year.

[dalern]

My audiologist definitely recommended yearly tests.  Check with your doc or audiologist.
~Dale

[6pick]

Why not?

[CHD63]

I have yearly audiograms, as well ..... just part of the follow-up protocol with my ENT.  Since I wear a hearing aid, it also assists the audiologist with programming of my hearing aid.

Sometimes diminished hearing can be caused by ear wax or fluid build-up behind the eardrum.  An ear exam and audiogram would give you peace of mind or determine if further testing is needed.

Clarice

[Lizard]

Thank you all, I just feel weird/silly calling my ENT (neurotologist) for this.  I suppose I could just call his office and request a test, not necessarily see him.

[6pick]

I have extremely limited experience in this so forgive me, but from the replies of other forumites on this thread, I'd guess your ENT might be unhappy that you haven't called in for that hearing test. And again, in my limited experience, I'd look for another ENT if he wasn't upset about that!

[Lizard]

Basically my ENT "released" me after my CSF incision finally closed and I've been back only once to discuss some other sinus problems, but he never told me that I should get hearing tests yearly.  This is strange I agree, so I just went ahead and scheduled one and when the receptionist asked me my name she said "Oh wow you haven't been here in a while, yes you are due".  I guess that made me feel better...anyway thanks again for all your input. 
Liz

[6pick]

There ya' go 

[Cynaburst]

I am completely deaf in my AN ear, but my ENT wants me to have an annual hearing test in my good ear.

[leapyrtwins]

Interesting thread.

Like many, I'm deaf in my AN ear and have perfect hearing in my "good" ear.  No one has ever told me to have an annual hearing test.

Will have to ask my neurotologist his opinion.

Thanks for starting this topic, Liz.

Jan

[Jim Scott]

Jan ~

Similarly, my doctor (a neurosurgeon) has never recommended that I have my hearing tested.  Like you, I hear very clearly in my 'good' ear so I see no need for testing my hearing, but, having a hearing test is certainly a good idea if one feels it may be necessary and/or, a doctor recommends it.  Apparently some do - and some don't.  However, I can see why an ENT might be more focused on hearing than a surgeon.  Of course, should ever I detect any noticeable loss in my unilateral hearing acuity, I wouldn't hesitate to call an ENT to schedule a hearing examination.

Jim

[leapyrtwins]

However, I can see why an ENT might be more focused on hearing than a surgeon. 

I agree with you, Jim.

But since my neurotologist is a surgeon, and also an "ear guy", I think asking him is my best bet.

I still recall how appalled he was the first time I met him and he asked me how long my hearing was diminished.  When I told him it was 3 months he was shocked   

So knowing how important he finds hearing, I think he's the perfect one for me to ask about an annual hearing test.

Will report back here on his response.

Jan

[lholl36233]

My ENT wants me to come back 2 years after I finished my proton radiation because I have noticed improvement in my hearing.  Time will tell.