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Hearing Test Emerald

Hearing Test in Emerald

When you attend a hearing test, the audiologist will typically begin by asking you a series of questions to help identify the source of your hearing concerns.

You’ll be asked about your medical history, including any ear problems or surgeries you have had, as well as any medications you’re currently taking. Your lifestyle will also be discussed, including your occupation, hobbies and exposure to loud noises.

Next, you’ll undergo a visual examination of your ears, which will help the audiologist identify any visible problems, such as earwax buildup or damage to the eardrum.

You’ll then be seated in a soundproof room and fitted with headphones or earplugs connected to a device that produces a range of sounds. The audiologist will play a series of sounds through the headphones, and you’ll be asked to respond when you hear them.

This will help the audiologist determine your threshold for different frequencies and volumes. The entire process usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and the results will be used to create a personalised treatment plan to address your hearing concerns.

Throughout the test, the audiologist will explain what’s happening and answer any questions you may have.

Signs You Need a Test

If you’re experiencing difficulties with your hearing, a test is likely warranted. You may need a hearing test if you consistently strain to hear conversations, especially in noisy environments, or if you have trouble understanding speech on TV or over the phone.

You may also notice that you’re turning up the volume on your electronics more frequently or relying on lip reading to follow conversations.

Other signs that you might need a hearing test include ringing in your ears, ear pain or a feeling of fullness in your ears. If you’ve been exposed to loud noises, such as music or machinery, consider getting your hearing checked.

Additionally, if you’ve noticed trouble hearing certain sounds, such as high-pitched tones, or if you’re experiencing dizziness or balance problems, a hearing test can help identify any underlying issues.

Recognising these signs is the first step towards addressing potential hearing problems.

Benefits of Early Detection

Early detection of hearing problems provides numerous benefits. Identifying and treating hearing issues promptly prevents further damage to your hearing.

Catching hearing problems early reduces your risk of experiencing social isolation, depression, and anxiety, often linked to untreated hearing loss. You’ll also improve relationships with family and friends by communicating more effectively.

Maintaining independence for longer is also more likely, as hearing loss can lead to reliance on others for daily tasks. Early detection provides a wider range of treatment options, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices.

Addressing hearing problems early reduces your risk of cognitive decline, linked to untreated hearing loss. You’ll also improve your overall quality of life by participating in activities and hobbies without the burden of hearing difficulties.

Taking proactive steps to detect hearing problems allows you to take control of your hearing health, setting yourself up for a better future.

Types of Hearing Tests Available

Different methods assess your hearing. Most tests are quick and simple, requiring no prior preparation.

The most common testing method is pure tone audiometry. You wear earphones and respond to tones at varying levels and frequencies. Your responses are recorded on a chart called an audiogram using a microphone.

Another method is the bone conduction test, where small sensors are placed on either side of your skull, and sound is sent directly through your skull bone.

Additional diagnostic methods, such as visual reinforcement audiometry, are available for younger children and some adults.

Acoustic reflex testing with visual observation assesses other hearing capabilities without requiring cooperation or voluntary involvement, using speech and tone emissions on a computer.

In Australia, these tests are readily available and can help identify hearing issues early on.

What the Results Mean

Understanding your hearing test results can seem daunting, but breaking down the components of your audiogram helps clarify the data. The graph shows two axes: frequency (pitch) and intensity (loudness). Your audiogram plots the softest sounds you can hear at different frequencies, and the resulting curve shows how well you hear.

Different symbols on the graph represent the sounds you heard through air conduction (AC) and bone conduction (BC). AC measures how well you hear sounds through your outer ear, while BC measures sound conduction through your skull. Comparing these results helps identify if you have a conductive or sensorineural hearing loss.

The audiogram also indicates the type and degree of hearing loss. A conductive loss means sound is blocked in the outer or middle ear, while a sensorineural loss indicates a problem in the inner ear or auditory nerve. The degree of loss is classified as mild, moderate, or profound.

Understanding these elements of your audiogram helps you grasp your hearing abilities and the types of hearing aids that may benefit you. This knowledge guides your discussion with an audiologist or hearing specialist to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.

DISCLAIMER: The content on our site is intended for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as an endorsement or recommendation of any treatments or products without a comprehensive hearing assessment. Users should seek professional advice and fully understand any potential side effects or risks before starting any treatment. Products mentioned on our site are not available for purchase by the public without prior consultation with a hearing health expert.

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