Understanding the Hearing Test Process
A thorough hearing test has several steps. Not all are required for every person, but it helps to know what to expect so you are prepared and receive the appropriate level of care. Ultimately, your Hearing Healthcare Professional wants to understand how they can help you, so a comprehensive hearing assessment should always be expected.
Case History
This is usually the first part of the hearing test. Some clinics ask you to complete a case history form before your appointment, while others gather this information during the consultation. Your clinician will ask about your hearing health, including past ear infections or surgery, your medical history, medications, family history of hearing loss, exposure to loud noise through work or recreation, and the situations where you experience communication difficulties.
Your clinician will then look into your ears using an otoscope to check for any abnormalities and to ensure your ear canals are clear of wax. If wax removal is needed, they will advise you on the next steps. Some clinicians can remove wax themselves, while others may refer you to your GP. If you know you are prone to wax build-up, having this addressed before your hearing test can save time.
Steps in the Hearing Test
In most clinics, your Audiologist or Audiometrist will carry out three main components of a hearing test.
- Middle ear function test which is not performed in all clinics. A small probe is placed at the entrance of your ear canal and you may feel pressure changes and hear loud beeps. This test measures how well your middle ear system is working and does not require you to respond.
- Audiometry assessment where you may be seated in a soundproof booth. Headphones or insert earphones are used to test hearing through air conduction. You press a response button whenever you hear a tone, even if it is very soft. Bone conduction testing follows using a vibrating device placed behind your ear. Some people may also require masking, which involves listening to noise in one ear while tones are presented to the other.
- Speech testing where you listen to words at different volumes and repeat them back. Your responses are recorded to assess how clearly you understand speech.
Getting the Results
This is a key part of your appointment. Your clinician should clearly explain your audiogram and how your hearing levels affect your communication. Ask for a copy of your results. The discussion should include the options available to you.
- If your hearing is within normal limits, a retest every 12 months is recommended.
- If a medical issue is detected, you will be referred to your doctor.
- If a permanent hearing loss is identified, a hearing device will be recommended.
