If you suffer from hearing loss or other hearing and balance related conditions, you may benefit from an audiological evaluation. These comprehensive diagnostic exams can determine the cause, severity, and best treatment option for these conditions in infants, children, and adults.
What happens during a hearing test?
A hearing test is a way for your ENT to easily test your ability to hear. They will also be able to determine what type of hearing loss you have and the severity of it. You will also discuss your symptoms and medical history with the ENT to make sure that the right test is done. There are several different types of hearing tests. Through an examination, your ENT will know the best one to perform. If you are experiencing any type of hearing loss, schedule now.
What kind of hearing test will I need?
- Diagnostic Audiogram - An audiogram uses sounds of specific frequencies and intensity levels to determine what a person can hear in each ear. The sounds are heard through headphones and the patient is asked to identify each time they hear a sound and in which ear. The sounds will become lower and lower to determine the level at which a patient can barely hear. An audiogram may also include speech in the form of two-syllable words to determine how well a patient can comprehend what is being heard. Normal results allow for a patient to hear a normal speaking voice, whisper, and ticking of a watch.
- Play Audiometry - Play audiometry is a modified version of the diagnostic audiogram, sometimes chosen instead when working with preschool and school age children. The sounds are heard through headphones, but rather than raising a hand to indicate hearing a sound, the child places a toy in a container.
- Tympanometry - Tympanometry examines and diagnoses the middle ear by varying air pressure in the ear canal to see how the ear responds. A probe is inserted into the ear to change the air pressure, produce a tone, and then measure the response. The patient may not speak, move or swallow during the test because these actions can affect the ear pressure. Tympanometry measures the functionality of the eardrum or tympanic membrane. Abnormal results may be the result of fluid in the middle ear, perforated eardrum, or impacted ear wax.
How do I know it's time for a hearing test?
If you notice that you have any of the following symptoms it may be time for a hearing test.
- Loved ones are always telling you to turn down the tv but it sounds low to you
- You are constantly asking “what” or “huh”
- You work in a loud environment
- You can't hear your loved ones when in a crowded area
- You experience ringing in your ears
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and think you are suffering from hearing loss it may be time to schedule an appointment at Scottsdale ENT.
Schedule now to learn about getting a hearing test
