What can cause you to fail a hearing test?

A hearing test is not "pass or fail." It maps how well you hear across different pitches. Results can show reduced hearing from ageing, noise exposure, ear wax, infections, some medications or genetics. Temporary factors like wax or a cold can affect a test on the day, which is why your audiologist interprets results in context rather than as a simple score.

Why there is no pass or fail

An audiogram is a map of your hearing, not a test with a right or wrong answer. It shows the quietest sound you can detect at different pitches in each ear. Some people have hearing well within a typical range, others show mild, moderate or greater loss, and each result simply guides what happens next.

What can temporarily affect your hearing test results?

• Recent loud noise exposure, such as a concert or power tools, in the hours beforehand
• Ear wax build-up, which can dull sound reaching the eardrum
• Background noise in the testing environment, which is why testing uses a quiet booth
• A cold, sinus congestion or ear infection, which can cause temporary fluid or blockage
• Certain medications, which your audiologist will ask about beforehand

Because of this, an unusual result on the day does not automatically mean permanent hearing loss. Your audiologist will consider your history alongside the test.

What can cause permanent changes an audiologist will interpret?

Ongoing causes of reduced hearing include ageing (presbycusis), long-term exposure to loud noise, some medications, genetics and certain medical conditions affecting the ear. An audiologist's assessment helps interpret which of these, if any, apply to you.

What happens if your results show hearing loss?

Your audiologist explains the type and degree of any hearing loss shown, discusses what may be causing it, and outlines options, from simple ear care through to hearing aids or a referral for further medical review if needed. There is no obligation to act on results immediately.

For more information, visit Healthdirect (healthdirect.gov.au) (opens in a new tab).

Sources: Healthdirect. Information current July 2026 and general in nature.