As the name suggests, a hearing test is a procedure that tests your hearing. Your hearing impacts most aspects of your life and how you experience the world, communicate with people, and even your mental health. So, it’s important to explore why you may need a hearing test, what happens during a hearing test, and what happens after the test.
Why You Might Need a Hearing Test
The most common reason to get a hearing test is if you or your healthcare provider suspects that you may have a measure of hearing impairment or loss. While most people with hearing loss are older, you can lose your hearing at any age. Some people are born with reduced or nonexistent hearing.
In some cases, hearing loss is temporary. If you have issues with keeping up with conversations, ear pain, tinnitus, or enjoying music or television, you should see a doctor. Ear infections and impacted wax are common causes of hearing loss that can be dealt with by a doctor, and you will often have your hearing fully restored if you seek help quickly enough.
However, hearing loss caused by wear and tear and certain injuries or illnesses is permanent. It can also be degenerative, meaning that it gets worse over time. Age-related hearing loss is also permanent and is often linked to wear and tear as well as genetic factors.
You can sometimes prevent or reduce hearing loss by looking after your hearing. Ear defenders and avoiding loud noises and music can slow the progression of hearing loss significantly.
The only way to know the extent of potential hearing loss, as well as how best to look after your hearing, is to get a hearing test.
What Happens During a Hearing Test?
A hearing test is a simple, non-invasive test and typically lasts about fifteen or so. The appointment as a whole will include a conversation about your general life and work, as well as your medical history and any concerns about your hearing. Your ears will be examined, then the hearing practitioner will conduct a hearing test.
During the test itself, you will sit in a soundproof room with headphones on to block out any exterior noise. The practitioner will play sounds through the headphones, and you press a button every time you hear a sound.
This test will reveal your range of hearing, including the minimum volume that you can hear and the range of pitches that you can hear. Both ears are tested.
The audiologist will then discuss the results of your test with you. You can be assured that they follow the required ethical practices in hearing care, so you feel safe and comfortable.
After the Test
As mentioned, the audiologist will use the results of your test to determine the extent of your hearing loss, if any. They will then recommend different options.
If you have hearing loss that affects your day-to-day life, hearing aids are a great way to restore your hearing so you can keep up with conversations.