What To Expect with Hearing Tests & Evaluations

Hearing tests and evaluations are essential in detecting hearing loss and determining the most appropriate treatment options. Conducted by audiologists, these tests can provide valuable insight into an individual’s hearing health and communication needs. In this article, we will discuss the types of hearing tests and what to expect during a hearing evaluation.

Case History and Initial Consultation

A hearing evaluation typically begins with a review of the patient’s case history and a discussion of their concerns and communication needs. Your audiologist will ask about any symptoms, medical history, noise exposure, and family history of hearing loss. This information helps guide the testing process and provides context for the results.

Physical Examination

Your audiologist will also conduct a physical examination of the patient’s ears. This may include visual inspection using an otoscope to check for any signs of infection, blockages, or abnormalities that could be affecting hearing.

Pure-Tone Audiometry

Pure-tone audiometry is the most common type of hearing test, used to measure an individual’s ability to hear different frequencies and intensities of sound. The patient wears headphones and listens to a series of tones played at varying pitches and volumes. They will indicate when they can hear the tone, and your audiologist records the softest sound they can hear at each frequency.

Speech Audiometry

Speech audiometry measures an individual’s ability to hear and understand speech. During this test, the patient listens to recorded words or sentences played at different volumes and repeats them back. Your audiologist assesses the patient’s speech reception threshold (SRT) and speech discrimination score, which provide information about how well the patient can hear and comprehend speech in various situations.

Tympanometry

Tympanometry is a test that assesses the middle ear’s function by measuring how well the eardrum moves in response to changes in air pressure. This test can help identify issues such as middle ear infections, fluid buildup, or eardrum perforations that may be contributing to hearing loss.

Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing

Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing evaluates the function of the outer hair cells in the cochlea, which play a crucial role in the hearing process. During this test, a small probe is placed in the ear, and sounds are played while the probe measures the echoes produced by the outer hair cells. Absent or reduced OAEs can indicate damage to these cells, often associated with hearing loss.

Understanding Your Results

Following the tests, your audiologist will review the results and discuss their findings with the patient. They will explain the type and degree of hearing loss, if present, and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other interventions.

A hearing evaluation is an essential step in identifying and addressing hearing loss. By understanding the various tests involved and knowing what to expect, patients can approach the process with confidence and begin their journey toward improved hearing health.