How Does an Audiologist Conduct a Hearing Test?
Hearing is a vital sensory function that connects us to the world, yet it’s often taken for granted until issues arise. Anyone can visit an audiologist at a Sound Advice Hearing Doctors location in MO, AR, and OK for a professional hearing assessment. We stress the far-reaching significance of hearing tests and their importance to a person’s overall health. The process involved is not complicated, and addressing concerns can substantially improve one’s quality of life.
The Critical Role of Audiology Tests
Hearing tests are critical for detecting hearing loss and preventing it from leading to other severe health conditions. Untreated conditions can increase the risk of dementia, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and depression. Early detection of loss through a hearing test is an essential step in maintaining overall wellness. Understanding your specific condition and its severity ensures a hearing doctor can offer a customized solution and personalized care, especially if hearing aids are needed.
What Is an Audiologist?
An audiologist is a healthcare professional specializing in identifying, diagnosing, treating, and monitoring disorders of the auditory and vestibular systems of the ear. They are equipped with the expertise to evaluate hearing loss and prescribe solutions, such as hearing aids, to improve a patient’s quality of life. Audiologists have extensive training in hearing and balance disorders, allowing them to provide comprehensive care and support for individuals experiencing hearing-related issues.
What Does an Audiologist Do in a Test?
Audiologists provide care for all matters related to ears. A typical hearing test at one of our hearing care locations involves a series of evaluations designed to thoroughly assess the type and severity of hearing loss. These tests are painless and are completed relatively quickly in our office. Here’s a closer look at what to expect during the process:
- Otoscopy – The evaluation starts with an otoscopy, where the audiologist examines the ear canals and eardrums for any visual signs of abnormality or obstruction.
- Pure-Tone Testing – This test involves wearing headphones and listening to tones at various pitches and volumes. You’ll note when you can hear the sounds, indicating the quietest noises and different frequencies you can hear.
- Bone Conduction Testing – This procedure assesses the inner ear’s response by bypassing the outer and middle ears. A device is placed behind your ear to measure how well sound vibrations are transmitted through the bones of the skull.
- Speech Testing – Speech tests measure your ability to hear and understand spoken words at different volume levels and in various noise backgrounds.
- Tympanometry – Tympanometry evaluates the middle ear’s functioning by measuring its response to pressure changes, which can help identify issues like fluid in the ear or eardrum perforations.
- Otoacoustic Emissions and Auditory Brainstem Response – These tests check the function of the cochlea and auditory pathway to the brain. Otoacoustic emissions measure the inner ear’s response to sound, while the auditory brainstem response assesses how the hearing nerve and brain pathways respond.
Reviewing the Results
Following the appropriate testing, an audiologist will explain what the results mean. They’ll outline the type and degree of hearing loss present and whether there are signs of tinnitus or other underlying conditions. Understanding the implications of your test results is the first step toward managing hearing loss effectively.
Different Types of Hearing Loss and Tinnitus
Not all hearing problems are the same. The issues affecting adults include:
- Sensorineural Hearing Loss – People who are candidates for hearing aids have sensorineural hearing loss, the most common form. It’s the result of damage to the inner ear which often happens from exposure to loud noise or naturally from aging.
- Conductive Hearing Loss – This type is usually temporary or can be treated with medication or surgical options. It’s caused by a blockage or deformity that keeps sound from passing to the inner ear.
- Tinnitus –Phantom noise, often ringing or buzzing, is the common symptom of this disease caused by exposure to loud noise.
Life After the Hearing Test
If the tests indicate you’re a candidate for hearing aids, your audiologist will guide you through the various options available. They’ll consider different factors, including the degree of hearing loss, lifestyle needs, personal preferences, and budget, to ensure you receive the most suitable and effective hearing assistance.
Take Action for Your Hearing Health
Many people with hearing loss put off addressing it because they’re unsure of what steps to take. Scheduling a hearing assessment is the first one. With a professional diagnosis, you’ll have a clear action plan of what you can do to improve your situation. Schedule a free hearing test and evaluation at Sound Advice Hearing Doctors, proudly serving MO, AR, and OK. Whether you’ve noticed changes in your hearing or just want to stay proactive about your auditory health, our team of experienced audiologists is here to help.
