Understanding the Basics of Hearing Tests

It can be determined by a professional if you have hearing loss by a hearing test. If you’ve never had one done before you may have questions or concerns about the test. It’s good to get a background of what they are and how they can help. It will also help ease any tensions by knowing what to expect. An audiologist can help you to better your hearing by understanding the basics of hearing tests.

Is A Hearing Test Necessary?

A hearing test is necessary, especially if you’re experiencing any hearing loss. It doesn’t matter your age or occupation; you should get a hearing test if your hearing has declined or you’re having trouble hearing. These tests can help to determine the severity of your hearing and which hearing aids will be the right fit for you.

What to Expect

When visiting an audiologist for the first time you will be asked questions about your general health and your hearing history. It will help your audiologist get a better understanding of your background. There may be, in some cases, that your hearing loss is genetic or inherited. They may ask you if you’ve recently experienced any trauma to the ear structure or head as well. Your audiologist will also ask you about any symptoms you’re experiencing in your everyday life as it relates to your hearing. An audiologist is the person who will perform the test.

Getting a Hearing Test

A hearing test determines the type of severity of your hearing loss. The test itself will be conducted in a quiet place where there are no other distractions. There is an audiometer that is used to conduct the test. You will be asked to either wear headphones or soft earplugs with wires that will connect to this instrument. A hearing test will be able to tell if your hearing has declined and see if hearing aids will benefit you long term.

An audiologist will run the test to determine the amount of hearing loss and if it’s considered mild, moderate, severe or profound. This will be good information to know, and you can begin to realize how your hearing loss may be impacting your daily life.

Understanding the Results

Once the results are in, they will be placed on what’s called an audiogram. It will communicate to your audiologist the softest sounds you can hear at different frequencies or pitches. The intensity or volume of the sounds you can hear will also be on the graph. Generally speaking, your audiologist will share the results from your hearing test with you right away. You can then discuss your severity of loss with them and discuss the available options of hearing aids.

Hearing tests are an excellent way to determine your hearing health and any hearing loss you are experiencing. A hearing test will help you in choosing the right hearing aid for you to fit your hearing needs. If you want to learn more about hearing tests, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.