What An Audiometer Hearing Test Entails

By Molly Morse


An audiometer comes in handy when evaluating hearing problems. This devices allows the doctors to figure out how deep the problem is and what kind of treatment is suitable. This equipment is found in audiology centers as well as clinics that deal with problems related to ears, noses and throats. The components that make up this machine include headphones, a hardware unit as well as a feedback button for the patient. The whole system can sometimes be controlled through a PC. The machine is constructed according to international standards. Hearing tests are also governed by standards.

There are several types of audiometers. Some are hardware based and others rely heavily on software. The basic types can be used at home by people who want to find out their hearing levels. The audiometers used in clinics are more expensive. This is because they are more accurate and their efficiency is higher. Calibration determines how precise a device is.

If you think that your ears are not working very well it is advisable to take an audiometer hearing test. Doctors carry out basic tests before using audiometers on their patients. They might start by using tuning forks. The initial screening determines whether you require a thorough test to be done. Audiometers are only used after it has been decided that you need a thorough screening. This device is used by audiologists.

The evaluation is thorough and it involves a series of tests. The audiologists should ask you several questions to find out what is likely to be the cause of your hearing problem. Your medical history will also be evaluated. Questions related to your work might also come up. After this the actual test will then be done.

You need to wear headphones before the test can start. Ensure they cover your ears properly. No sound should come in from the room that you are in. When the evaluation gets underway you should hear sounds in your ear. The test is aimed at evaluating each year individually. This means that you should hear the sound in each ear one at a time. By doing this the specialist will be able to determine if the hearing loss is on both ears or on one side.

The sound in the head phones is switched to various frequencies and levels. This helps to identify the levels that you can hear and those that you cannot. Depending with the specialist you may be required to use the feedback button or your arms to indicate when you hear a sound. The tone will keep varying.

When you do not hear any sound from the headphones you should not worry because it is expected. The audiologist needs to find out the lowest level of sound that you can hear. The test will determine how serious your loss is. In some instances you may be required to go for a more serious evaluation. It is important to take your time and answer the questions as accurately as you can.

An audiometer hearing test is very important when you have hearing loss. It provides information that is used to come up with the right solution. Doctors will determine the right form of treatment after seeing the results.




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