Understanding Different Types of Hearing Tests

Hearing test is a broad term used to describe the different evaluations an audiologist performs to assess whether you have hearing loss and, if you do, the severity of it. It may also diagnose the cause if, for instance, it’s due to something like earwax build-up. It is typically a series of tests used to diagnose your hearing loss as thoroughly as possible. Here are three common types of examinations to help you get an idea of what to expect, and what results you might find.

The pure-tone test

Hearing loss impacts different pitches and frequencies. The pure-tone test is designed to see what levels of sound you struggle to hear. You will wear headphones and the audiologist will play sounds of different pitches and frequencies. If you hear a sound, you will be asked to indicate so, often by saying “yes,” raising your hand or pressing a button. Both ears are tested individually, helping the audiologist map out the specifics of what hearing range you have on both sides.

The speech test

Many people with hearing loss may not have trouble hearing at different pitches, but often have trouble making out verbal communication. In particular, many who are starting to notice the effects of hearing loss will say that they have trouble hearing in loud environments. This is another test that involves listening to a series of words through headphones. The audiologist may play a recording of a voice or speak to you directly. While listening to the speech, there will be a combination of clear words and those immersed with background noise. You will be asked to repeat the words you hear. This will help the audiologist record how well you able to hear in loud environments, as well as measuring the softest speech that you’re able to repeat.

The middle ear tests

These are also tests designed to measure your middle ear function. Tympanometry involves the audiologist gently inserting a very small probe into the ear. Air pressure is applied to test the eardrums sensitivity, which can help the audiologist learn how sensitive the eardrum is and whether there are any perforations. Acoustic reflex measures involve inspecting the middle ear as you listen to sounds, to see if the acoustic reflex muscles move. This helps them understand the potential location of issues causing hearing loss.

Which hearing tests your audiologist performs will depend on different things, such as risk factors in your lifestyle. Regardless of which tests your audiologist uses, they can all help them come to a more accurate assessment of your hearing.