Diagnostic Tests

Do You Need A Hearing Test?

Your hearing is a precious gift – one you need to take care of or run the risk of losing. An important part of hearing care is having your hearing checked periodically. There are several levels of hearing evaluation, from a basic hearing test to more complex diagnostic tests for specific problems.

Basic Hearing Testing

A basic hearing test is performed in a quiet area (preferably a Sound Booth) with an audiometer, a device that produces various pitch sounds (frequencies) at different levels (intensities). The person responds to the sounds by either raising his/her hand or pushing a button.

Results are then charted on an audiogram, which gives the audiologist an indication of whether hearing is within normal limits or if a problem may exist.

If a hearing loss is detected, more testing can be performed to better define the nature and extent and possible cause of the hearing loss. Each test evaluates a different part of the ear. Some typical tests performed include:

Additional diagnostic testing

• Tympanogram – tests the eardrum and the middle ear (the space behind the eardrum).
• Acoustic reflexes – measures the movement of the tiny bones behind the eardrum.
• Otoacoustic emission (OAE) – checks the function of the tiny little “hair cells” in the inner ear.
• Speech testing – evaluates the effect of the hearing loss on understanding speech. Sometimes this is performed in both a quiet and noisy background, using live or recorded voice.
• Auditory Evoked Potentials (ABR) – checks the acoustic nerve function up to and into the first part of the brain (Pons)
• Electronystagmography (ENG) – evaluates the part of the inner ear controlling balance. Usually performed on individuals who experience dizziness or balance problem.
• Auditory Processing Testing (APD/CAPD) – evaluates how the brain perceives or understands what the ear sends. Many times, this test is recommended for children who experience attention or learning problems, or adults who have normal ear function but still have “hearing” difficulty.