Sep 19, 2025
What to Expect at Your First Hearing Test
If you’ve been noticing changes in your hearing, booking a hearing test is a smart and empowering first step. Still, for many people, the idea of getting their hearing tested can feel unfamiliar, even intimidating. At United Hearing, we understand that. That’s why we’re here to walk you through exactly what happens during a hearing test — so you can arrive confident and informed.
Here’s what to expect when you visit us for your first appointment.
A Warm, Professional Welcome
When you arrive at United Hearing, you’ll be greeted by a friendly front desk team who will guide you through a quick check-in process. We’ll ask you to fill out a short intake form that covers your medical history, any recent hearing concerns, and lifestyle questions that help us better understand your needs.
You don’t need to prepare anything ahead of time — just bring yourself and any questions you might have.
A One-on-One Consultation with a Hearing Specialist
Your appointment begins with a personal conversation. One of our licensed hearing professionals will ask you about:
Any recent changes in your hearing
Specific situations where hearing feels difficult (conversations, TV, restaurants, etc.)
Exposure to loud environments or family history of hearing loss
Overall health and medications that may affect hearing
This part is casual and judgment-free. It helps us personalize your evaluation and gives you the chance to share any concerns in your own words.
A Quick Physical Exam of Your Ears
Before testing begins, the specialist will look inside your ears using a small, lighted tool called an otoscope. This allows us to check for:
Earwax buildup
Fluid in the middle ear
Signs of infection or irritation
Any physical blockages that may affect your hearing
If we find anything that needs attention, we’ll discuss it right away and, in some cases, recommend a referral to a doctor before continuing.
The Hearing Test (Audiogram)
This is the part most people think of when they imagine a hearing test — and it’s completely painless.
You’ll sit in a quiet, sound-treated room wearing a pair of headphones. Your specialist will play a series of tones at different pitches and volumes, and you’ll simply press a button or raise your hand each time you hear a sound. This helps us map out your hearing ability across different frequencies.
We’ll also test how well you understand speech at different volumes, both in quiet and in background noise. This is important for real-world hearing scenarios, like talking in restaurants or group settings.
The full testing process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Reviewing Your Results Together
Once the test is complete, your specialist will explain your results in clear, simple terms using a visual graph called an audiogram. You’ll learn:
Whether you have hearing loss
What type and degree of hearing loss you may have
Which parts of your hearing are affected
Whether hearing aids or other treatment might help
We’ll take the time to answer your questions and make sure you fully understand your results — no pressure, just professional analysis.
Your Next Steps
If your hearing is within normal limits, we may simply recommend an annual check-up. If some loss is detected, we’ll talk about treatment options, including modern hearing aids tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
You’re never expected to make a decision on the spot. We’ll provide all the information and give you time to think it over.
Final Thoughts
Your first hearing test is not just about measuring your hearing — it’s about understanding your needs, building trust, and starting a conversation about your health and quality of life.
At United Hearing, we’re here to make that process easy, comfortable, and judgment-free.
Ready to schedule your first hearing test?
Book a free consultation with one of our hearing professionals today and take the first step toward better hearing.