Audiometry is a procedure used to assess the sensitivity of a person's hearing across a range of frequencies. This test is typically performed by an audiologist using a machine called an audiometer.
Procedure of Audiometry Test
Here is a general description of how the audiometry test is done:
The patient is seated in a soundproof booth or room to ensure external noises don't interfere with the test.
The audiologist will often ask about the patient's medical and noise exposure history to get a better understanding of their hearing health.
The patient will wear headphones connected to the audiometer.
The audiologist will play a series of tones at various pitches (frequencies) and volumes (intensities) into one ear at a time.
The patient is asked to respond every time they hear a tone, usually by pressing a button.
The softest sound (in decibels, dB) that the patient can hear at each frequency is plotted on an audiogram, a graphical representation of hearing sensitivity.
The test will typically cover frequencies from 250 Hz to 8000 Hz, which encompasses most of the range of human speech and many environmental sounds.
The audiologist will play a series of words or sentences at various volumes.
The patient is asked to repeat the words or sentences.
This test assesses the individual's ability to hear and understand speech. The results can be presented as a speech reception threshold (SRT) and word recognition score.
Instead of using headphones, a bone oscillator is placed on the mastoid bone behind the ear.
This directly stimulates the inner ear, bypassing the middle and outer ear.
This test helps to determine if hearing loss is conductive (related to issues in the outer or middle ear) or sensorineural (related to issues in the inner ear or auditory nerve).
Tympanometry (if included):
A small probe is inserted into the ear canal.
The device changes the pressure in the ear and measures the movement of the eardrum in response to the pressure changes.
This test provides information about the condition and function of the middle ear.
Interpretation of Results:
After the tests, the audiologist will review the results with the patient.
The audiogram will show the type, degree, and configuration of any hearing loss.
Recommendations, which may include hearing aids, medical intervention, or other treatments, will be provided based on the results.
Depending on the findings and recommendations, a follow-up might be needed with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor, or for hearing aid fitting and adjustments.
Before undergoing an audiometry test, it's essential to avoid exposure to loud noises for at least 16 hours, as recent noise exposure can temporarily affect hearing thresholds. It's also a good idea to ensure the ears are free from excessive wax, as this can affect the test results.
Is Audiometry Test Painful?
No, the audiometry test is not painful. It is a non-invasive procedure that involves listening to sounds and responding when you hear them. Most people find the test straightforward and painless.
However, there are a few considerations:
Comfort Level: While the test is painless, some might feel slight discomfort or claustrophobia when seated in the soundproof booth, especially if the test takes a long time. This feeling is generally minor and goes away once the test is over.
Ear Pressure: If tympanometry is included, which assesses the middle ear's function by changing the air pressure in the ear canal, some might feel a sensation similar to being in an airplane when it's descending. While this isn't painful, it might feel a bit odd or uncomfortable for a brief moment.
Existing Ear Conditions: For individuals with active ear infections or other ear problems, inserting headphones or the probe for tympanometry might cause slight discomfort. It's essential to inform the audiologist of any current ear issues before the test.
If you ever feel discomfort during the test, you can inform the audiologist, and they can adjust or stop the test if necessary.
Audiometry Test in Jaipur
Lavanya Speech & Hearing Center performs audiometry test in Jaipur. We deal in all types of hearing aids - ordinary, digital. You can reach us directly for more details.
