One of the common questions we get is “What happens during a hearing test?”
A hearing test, also known as an audiometry test, is a diagnostic tool used to evaluate the hearing ability of an individual. It involves a series of tests to determine the softest sounds that a person can hear across different frequencies.
If you are scheduled for a hearing test, keep reading:
What happens during a hearing test?
Preliminaries
Before the test, you may be asked to fill out a form with your medical history and any medications you are taking that could affect your hearing.
You may also be asked about any hearing-related symptoms you have been experiencing, such as dizziness, ringing in your ears (tinnitus), or difficulty hearing certain sounds or pitches.
It is important to be very honest and thorough with your answers to provide accurate information to the audiologist or examiner.
The Test Procedure
The hearing test typically takes place in a quiet room or soundproof booth to minimize any external noise. You will be given earplugs or headphones to wear, and the audiologist will use specialized equipment to produce sounds of varying volumes and frequencies.
The hearing test will consist of several parts, including:
Speech audiometry – This test measures your ability to hear and understand speech. You will be asked to repeat words or sentences that are played through headphones or earplugs at different volumes.
Pure-tone audiometry – Pure-tone audiometry assesses your ability to hear different frequencies of sound. You will be asked to indicate when you hear a tone by raising your hand or pressing a button.
Tympanometry – This test measures the movement of your eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. It can help detect any problems in the middle ear, such as a perforated eardrum or fluid buildup.
Otoacoustic emissions – This test measures sound produced by the inner ear in response to sounds played through the headphones. This type of hearing test can help detect any problems with the hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for hearing.
After the Hearing Test
Once the test is complete, the audiologist will discuss the results with you. If you have any hearing loss, they will explain the degree and type of hearing loss and what treatment options are available.
Treatment options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, assistive listening devices, or other related gadgets to improve hearing.
You may also be referred to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further evaluation.
How often should you get a hearing test?
Now that you already have an idea of what happens during a hearing test, it’s time to address the second most popular question we get about this topic. How often should you get your hearing tested?
It is important to note that hearing loss can occur gradually over time and may not be noticeable until it has progressed significantly. Therefore, it is recommended that adults get their hearing tested every 10 years up until age 50, and then every 3 years after that.
If you are experiencing any hearing-related symptoms, such as ringing in your ears, difficulty hearing in noisy environments, or dizziness, it is important to schedule a hearing test with an audiologist right away.
In conclusion, a hearing test is a painless and non-invasive way to assess your hearing ability. By understanding what to expect from the test, you can be better prepared for the experience.
Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and early detection and treatment can help improve your quality of life.
HearCare Audiology provides comprehensive hearing tests and diagnostic services in Fort Wayne, IN.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!