Information About An Audiometer Hearing Test

By Molly Morse


An audiometer is a piece of equipment used to evaluate hearing loss. This machine is mostly found in ear, nose and throat clinics. It is also a must have in audiology centers. Audiometers are made of a hardware unit that is linked to headphones. A button that the person being tested uses to give feedback is also included. A normal personal computer can sometimes be used to control this system. There are standards that govern the procedure as well as the requirements that the machine should meet.

There are different types of audiometers. Some can be operated by anyone at home who wants to test their hearing. Such devices are not very accurate and they are PC based. The type that is used in clinics is more expensive. However, they are more efficient and accurate. The calibration determines how accurate the machine is.

If you experience problems with your hearing you need to go for a test. An audiometer hearing test is very accurate and it helps doctors to know how severe your loss is. Doctors begin by giving you basic tests to evaluate whether your ears are working. Tuning forks are mostly used when getting started. If the initial screening indicates your problem is serious you can now take the audiometer test.

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 a pair of headphones before getting started. Make sure that you place them over the ears properly. They should block all other sounds from the room. When you are ready you should start receiving sounds from the headphones. The sound will hit the ears one at a time. This is because the test should evaluate both ears individually. This way, specialists can determine whether you have a problem in one ear or both of them.

The sound is switched to different levels and frequencies. This helps to determine if you can hear all the levels and at which frequency. The audiologists may want you to use signs such as raising your hands whenever you hear a sound. Use the hand on the side where you receive the sound. The tones get louder and fainter with time.

In some instances you will not hear all the sounds. This is normal and you should not be worried. Doctors need to find out the lowest sound you are able to hear. This indicates the type of loss you may be experiencing. It also determines whether you need a more thorough evaluation. It is advisable to take time with the test and answer all questions as accurately as you can. Do not guess anything.

Whenever you have a hearing problem it is advisable to do an audiometer hearing test. This will determine how serious your problem is and the kind of treatment options you have. You may need to go for a more specialized screening to determine the treatment options that you will be comfortable with.




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