When you visit us, our hearing instrument specialists will guide you through the process of getting a hearing test. Whether you’ve noticed changes in your hearing or simply want to stay proactive about your auditory health, a hearing test is a crucial step. During your appointment, we’ll take the time to understand your concerns and answer any questions you may have. With advanced testing equipment and personalized care, we’ll uncover valuable insights about your hearing abilities and any potential issues. By taking this important first step, you’re not just investing in better hearing but also in improved communication and overall well-being.
What Are the Different Types of Hearing Tests?
The hearing tests we use depend on the needs of the patient. Factors like your age, symptoms, and medical history guide us toward the testing that will work best for you. Your hearing instrument specialist will use your test results to determine the type of hearing loss you have and its severity. But with that in mind, here are some of the most common hearing tests our patients complete:
Pure-Tone Testing
Pure-tone testing is a fundamental component of a comprehensive hearing evaluation conducted by hearing specialists. During this test, the individual wears headphones and listens to a series of tones at different frequencies and volumes. The goal is to determine the softest level at which they can hear each frequency, known as their hearing threshold.
Bone Conduction
Bone conduction testing validates those results and helps your hearing instrument specialist determine where within the ear the hearing problem is taking place. Hearing problems can be conductive (in the middle or outer ear) or sensorineural (in the inner ear or related to the auditory nerves and pathways).
Speech Testing
Speech testing is similar to pure-tone testing, but it asks you to identify words and speech instead of tones. The results can validate what we’ve learned in other tests and may be more applicable to real-world situations.
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Test
OAE assesses the health of the tiny hair cells within the cochlea by measuring the sounds they naturally emit in response to external stimuli. When sound enters the ear, the inner hair cells vibrate, generating faint sounds known as otoacoustic emissions. By capturing and analyzing these emissions, professionals can determine the integrity of the hair cells and identify any potential damage or dysfunction.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Test
ABR evaluates the integrity of the auditory nerve and brainstem pathways responsible for transmitting sound signals from the ear to the brain. During the test, electrodes are placed on the scalp to detect the electrical activity generated by the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to auditory stimuli.
We also offer specialized testing options for individuals who can’t actively participate in the testing process. These make it easier for everyone to get the hearing care they need – regardless of their age or condition.
Going Over the Results
Through a detailed review of your test findings, the hearing specialist will discuss the extent of your hearing loss, if present, including the specific frequencies and severity affected. Additionally, they will explain how your hearing abilities compare to typical thresholds for your age group and offer recommendations for appropriate interventions or treatments. Understanding your hearing test results allows you to make informed decisions about your hearing health, like exploring hearing aid options and assistive listening devices.