How are Hearing Tests Performed?

2020-09-28 Have you noticed an issue with your hearing? If you speak to an audiologist, they will typically want to book you in for a hearing test. A hearing test is a way to check the level of your hearing and whether your hearing has deteriorated either due to exposure to loud noise, old age or a medical condition. Many people are often worried about the hearing test and how intrusive they may be. However, hearing tests are often far more simple and straightforward than most people realize.

Filling in forms
The first step of any hearing test is to fill in all the correct forms. Typically, you will be provided a full survey which will take you around twenty minutes. This will ask everything that an audiologist needs to know about you including past medical history, family medical history and any medication that you might be on. All could be relevant if you are having an issue with your hearing that you can not explain. It’s possible that the issue is relatively simple and could be caused by a side effect of virtually any medication.

Physical examination
Typically, you will complete the questionnaire in the waiting area before you see an audiologist. Once this has been filled in, you will be taken into an examination room. Here, they will complete a physical test where they can check for a common issue that can cause hearing trouble. For instance, it’s possible that you have a build up of hardened wax in your ear. If this is the case, warm water can rinse it out quickly. However, if there is no sign of a physical cause, further tests will be required.

Series of tests
In addition to a physical examination, your audiologist will perform a series of tests to measure your hearing ability. During these tests, your audiologist will ask you to raise your hand or push a button to indicate when you’ve heard a particular sound. They will chart your answers to determine if you struggle to hear certain pitches or frequencies. They may also conduct tests to monitor your middle ear function or speech recognition.

Results
After the hearing test is complete, the audiologist will make a recommendation. If you do have a significant level of hearing loss, hearing aids are typically the best and most common solution. However, there are many different types and models to choose from. An audiologist can help you make the right decision for your need and requirements. Depending on the level of your hearing loss, all models may not be available or suitable for you.