What are the Most Common Hearing Tests Conducted?

As there are a number of different types of hearing loss, it is understandable that there are different types of hearing tests that audiologists can rely on to get the information they need. Of course, if you have never had a hearing test before, you may not be aware of the different options that are out there and what this means for you in terms of what to expect from your appointment. Keeping that in mind, below, we are going to take a look at some of the most common types of hearing tests so that you can get a better understanding. 

Tympanometry

One of the first tests that a lot of hearing loss patients will take is what is known as tympanometry. This test involves the movement of your eardrum being measured whenever air pressure is introduced into the ear. The purpose of this is to see whether there is a buildup of any sort of wax or fluid in your ear. However, it can also be helpful in terms of figuring out whether you have any sort of blockages like a tumor that could be stopping you from hearing as you should.

Pure-tone Testing 

One of the most common types of hearing tests is what is known as pure-tone testing. This involves the utilization of air conduction so that the audiologist can measure how well you are able to hear different sounds at various volumes and frequencies. You will usually need to wear some headphones and then sit in a booth or room that has been designed for the test specifically so that there is no interference from outside noises. A series of sounds will be played through your headphones and you will be asked to either push a button or raise a hand whenever you hear something. The purpose of this is to figure out what frequencies you have difficulty hearing. 

Bone Conduction Test

Finally, we have what is known as a bone conduction test, which is about determining the extent of your hearing loss by measuring how your ear responds to specific sounds. With this test, a conductor is positioned behind your ear and it will send small vibrations direct to your ear through your bones. This can be a lot more accurate than the pure tone testing we mentioned earlier because it is not reliant on your input and will measure how your inner ear reacts. 

As you can see, there are a number of different hearing tests that audiologists can draw upon when it comes to examining a person’s hearing so they can figure out whether they have hearing loss, and if so, the extent of it. If you have noticed any signs that you may have hearing loss, it is important to book a hearing test with an experienced audiologist as soon as possible. The sooner any potential problems are picked up on, the sooner you will be able to get the help you need so that your quality of life is not impacted!