To say that hearing plays a big role in daily life is an understatement. It is through hearing that we receive important auditory information so we can communicate, learn, and hear the world around us. Any impairment to hearing can greatly impact one’s quality of life. Hearing tests help maintain healthy hearing by detecting any issues early on.
There are many types of hearing tests that cater to different age groups and hearing needs. In this blog, we will explore the different types of hearing tests available.
Types of Hearing Tests
Pure-tone Audiometry
Pure-tone audiometry is the most common type of hearing test. This hearing test is conducted using headphones that are connected to a device called an audiometer. The audiometer produces tones of varying intensities and frequencies, and the individual being tested is asked to respond when they hear the tones by raising their hand or pressing a button. Pure-tone audiometry helps determine the softest sounds that a person can hear across different frequencies.
Speech Audiometry
Speech audiometry evaluates an individual’s ability to hear and understand speech. During this test, you may be asked to repeat words or phrases played at different volumes to determine your ability to discriminate speech and your speech reception threshold (SRT).
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs)
OAEs are sounds that are produced by the inner ear in response to a sound stimulus. This hearing test places a small probe in the ear canal to measure emissions from the ears. OAE testing can detect any damages to the hair cells in the inner ear and is often the recommended test for newborn hearing screenings.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
The ABR test measures the electrical activity of the brainstem and auditory nerve. Like OAEs, this test is often used to evaluate hearing in infants and young children who cannot respond to speech audiometry or pure-tone tests.
Tympanometry
Tympanometry measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. This hearing test can detect problems with the middle ear, such as blockage in the ear canal, fluid buildup, or perforation of the eardrum.
South County Hearing Services has audiologists providing comprehensive hearing tests in Narragansett, RI.
Hearing Test FAQs
First time to get a hearing test? We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions and answered them for you:
Q: How long does a hearing test take?
A: The duration of a hearing test can vary depending on the type of test and the individual being tested. Hearing tests may take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
Q: Do I need to prepare for a hearing test?
A: No, you don’t need to prepare anything for a hearing test. The only thing you need to be prepared for is to answer or respond to the audiologist or person in-charge of the test as accurately as possible.
Q: Will a hearing test hurt?
A: Hearing tests are generally non-invasive and painless. For hearing tests that may involve placing a small probe in the ear canal, you can expect a very slight discomfort or tickling sensation, but overall, it should not be painful.
Importance of Hearing Tests
Getting a hearing test is necessary especially for individuals who are at higher risk of developing hearing loss. This includes those who have a family history of hearing loss, people who work in loud environments, and older adults.
Untreated hearing loss can have a huge impact on a person’s quality of life, which could lead to social isolation, cognitive decline, or depression.
Hearing Tests in Narragansett, RI
Consulting with an audiologist ensures that you get the proper diagnosis and receive treatment for your specific type of hearing loss.
Our Narragansett, RI audiologists at South County Hearing are trained and licensed professionals who specialize in identifying, diagnosing, and treating hearing and balance disorders.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment!