Hearing tests are the only credible way to determine the intensity and type of one’s hearing loss. After diagnosing and evaluating the nature and underlying cause of your hearing problems, your audiologist will provide the best hearing loss treatment solution, such as hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or cochlear implants. In this blog, we will throw light on different types of hearing tests and understand the benefits of each.
What is a Hearing Test (Audiometry)?
A hearing test, also known as audiometry, is the method by which audiologists (hearing specialists) evaluate a person’s intensity and type of hearing loss. Audiological assessments are recommended for individuals of all ages, from newborns to seniors. Infants may need an audiometry test if they did not pass a newborn hearing screening (conducted as a routine test within the first 1-2 days of birth, typically before hospital discharge).
Young children are also recommended to undergo hearing tests if they show hearing loss symptoms like speech or language delay, not responding to their names, not following conversations in noisy places, etc. Adults, on the other hand, need annual hearing checkups, or more frequently, if needed, particularly after turning 60. A hearing test for adults is also recommended for individuals who start experiencing the early signs of hearing loss, such as turning up the TV/radio/phone volume frequently, facing difficulty understanding speech in noise, or having the feeling that others are mumbling.
7 Common Types of Hearing Tests: Purpose and Outcomes
Let’s understand the different types of hearing loss diagnosis that audiologists perform to detect hearing impairment in children and adults.
Pure-Tone Audiometry (PTA)
Pure-Tone Audiometry measures the quietest sounds a person can hear at varying pitches or frequencies. Both older children and adults can have this test, where they need to respond to the tones played via headphones. (This test is not ideal for non-responding individuals or toddlers who are unable to speak.)
Bone Conduction Testing
This hearing test helps identify the issues with the cochlear hair cells in the inner ear. These hair cells transmit the sound vibrations to the auditory nerve, which, in turn, sends them forward to the brain for sound processing. That’s when we can actually perceive the sound.
Tympanometry
Tympanometry is a measure that helps audiologists evaluate one’s middle ear function, especially by checking the performance of the eardrum (tympanic membrane). Therefore, this test helps detect a ruptured eardrum, excessive earwax accumulation, or fluid buildup in the ear canal. In short, tympanometry helps identify the causes of conductive hearing loss.
Speech Audiometry
A speech audiometry test evaluates how well an individual understands speech or spoken words. Many audiologists perform speech tests in combination with pure-tone audiometry. The test is conducted by making the person wear headphones and then repeating the words spoken softly or loudly by the audiologist.
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE)
The OAE test is suitable for non-responding individuals (for instance, toddlers or non-verbal kids) who are unable to respond to conventional hearing tests, as this hearing test procedure does not require active participation. The OAE test assesses one’s inner ear function by measuring the otoacoustic emissions (OAEs), which refer to the sounds produced by the inner ear in response to those coming from the middle ear. If hearing loss is present, the inner ear won’t be able to produce these OAEs. To measure the OAEs, the audiologist sends sound signals into the ear and evaluates whether they come back.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
Similar to the OAE test, one does not need to participate actively in an ABR test, and hence, it is suitable for non-verbal or non-responding individuals. The individual simply needs to stay still or be asleep while the audiologist assesses their hearing by placing electrodes on the head against the skin. Different tones or sounds are played via earphones, and the computer records the brain’s response to these sound signals. In an ABR test, the audiologist detects the softest sound levels the brain can respond to.
Tuning Fork Tests
The tuning for test, also known as a Weber test, is a simple, quick, and basic hearing test that helps differentiate between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It uses a vibrating fork that is placed on the midline of the skull or forehead. When sound is heard equally in both ears, it indicates normal hearing, and if one ear hears it louder than the other, it indicates the presence of hearing loss. For instance, if conductive hearing loss is present, the sound appears louder in the affected ear, as it blocks external sounds. On the other hand, if sensorineural hearing loss is present, the “good” ear will hear the sounds louder.
Final Words
Hearing is a way to connect with your surrounding world and enjoy the joys of life. If you experience hearing difficulties, it’s crucial to undergo one or more of these types of hearing tests to evaluate your hearing issues and their underlying causes. Seek help from a professional audiologist, who will provide expert guidance on comprehensive hearing care and rehabilitation. The best hearing test centre will suggest suitable options based on your hearing challenges and offer a range of solutions to address your issues promptly, enabling you to hear and communicate clearly and confidently again.
