Understanding the Different Types of Hearing Tests

Hearing is a vital sense that allows us to connect with the world. Maintaining your hearing health is essential for your well-being. If you have noticed changes in your hearing, it’s time to seek the help of an audiologist. An audiologist can perform a variety of hearing tests tailored to your needs. Each test has a different function and will play its own unique role in evaluating the different aspects of your hearing. Here are some of the most common types of hearing tests.

Pure-Tone Audiometry

Pure-tone audiometry is one of the most common hearing tests. This test will measure your ability to hear all the different frequencies of sounds that are available. During this test, you’ll wear headphones and listen to a series of tones. You will then signal when you hear each sound. You will be asked to raise your hand or press a button. The results are plotted on an audiogram. This is a visual chart on which you will find a report on the softest sounds you are capable of hearing on their softest pitch. The test will accurately pinpoint the degree of hearing loss in each ear.

Speech Audiometry

Speech audiometry evaluates how well you can hear and understand spoken words. This test is going to involve you listening to a speech that is recorded or live. This will be done at different volumes. You will be asked to repeat the words you hear. The test provides insight into how well you can recognize speech in quiet or noisy environments.

Tympanometry

Tympanometry is used to evaluate the health and function of the middle ear. The test will measure the movement of your eardrum as it begins to respond to changes that happen in air pressure. Your audiologist will be able to spot fluid buildup, and problems with tiny bones in the middle ear.

Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing

Otoacoustic emissions are sounds generated by the inner ear in response to auditory stimulation. For this test, a small probe will be put in the ear canal to deliver a sound. The ear’s response will then be recorded. This test can determine if there is damage to the cochlea.

Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Testing

The auditory brainstem response test assesses how well the auditory nerve and brainstem respond to sound. During this test electrodes will be placed on the skin to measure the activity that takes place in response to sounds that are played through your headphones.

Why These Tests Matter

Each hearing test provides valuable information about different parts of the auditory system. This will allow an audiologist to create a treatment plan that is customized for you. If hearing loss is identified, your audiologist will recommend hearing aids.

Modern hearing aids are designed to improve communication and enhance your daily experiences. When it comes to design many are very discreet. If you want to learn more about the different types of hearing tests or more about hearing loss, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.