What Does a Hearing Test Involve?

Hearing tests are easy, painless and essential. By committing to regular hearing tests, a baseline of results is provided, making it easier to track any changes or deterioration over a period of time.

Even mild hearing loss can negatively impact quality of life. Regular testing is essential. It helps with diagnosis and early intervention, which can help reduce levels of cognitive decline.

Hearing Tests

Before your hearing test, you will undergo a full consultation. This will include taking details of any relevant medications, medical conditions, lifestyle choices and symptoms experienced.

Pure tone audiometry will be assessed, for which you will have to wear headphones. You will be asked to press a hand-held button when you hear different sounds of varying pitches, tones, volumes and frequencies. Your results will be recorded in order to determine levels of hearing loss and possible causes.

A similar process is used for bone conduction testing which assesses hearing function in the inner ear. Instead of headphones, a headband is provided to the patient, which they will wear across their forehead.

Tympanometry testing will then be carried out to establish the level of flexibility within the eardrum. This involves using a handheld device that will gently circulate air into the ear.

Speech testing determines how well a patient can hear and identify words. These will be assessed at different volume levels and with the addition of various background noises.

Other testing methods may include acoustic reflex testing, otoacoustic emissions testing and auditory brainstem response testing.

After the hearing test, an audiologist will review the results to establish any areas of hearing loss. The findings of the test will be discussed in full with the patient and any recommendations for treatment made where necessary.

Audiologists

To book your hearing test Bristol, enlist the help of an expert audiology service such as https://www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/bristol/.

As well as providing quality, comprehensive hearing testing, an expert provider can also manage all aftercare requirements. These may include solutions for hearing loss, such as hearing aids, as well as complementary strategies and rehabilitation.