Introduction
Individuals may experience age-related hearing issues with time. The audiometry test is performed to assess hearing issues in infants and adults. It helps to evaluate the individual’s capacity to respond to sound and to check for any block or damage to the inner ear. The audiometry test is the golden standard for measuring the individual's capability to hear different sounds.
What Is an Audiometry Test?
It is a type of hearing test that helps measure an individual’s capability to hear different sounds and frequencies is called the audiometry test. The test is specifically performed by a specialist using special equipment. It is useful in diagnosing hearing loss or other hearing problems. In this test, the individual is asked to wear headphones, in which a range of sounds at different frequencies and volumes are played to evaluate the hearing capacity of an individual.
What Is Normal Audiometry?
A test in which an individual is able to hear sounds within the normal ranges of frequency and volume is called normal audiometry. The test results are usually plotted on an audiogram, which is in the form of a graph that displays the individual’s hearing threshold at various frequencies. In a normal audiogram, the hearing thresholds are within the typical range without any significant gaps or reductions in hearing ability. However, normal can differ based on the factors like age, health, and occupation of an individual. Hence it is important to consult an audiologist for a professional interpretation of test results.
How Is the Audiometry Test Performed?
The audiologist may test the hearing of an individual, which is usually performed in the office. It includes completing a questionnaire and listening to tuning forks, whispered voices, and tones of an ear examination scope. The audiometry test is performed in a quiet room. The following is a general outline of the steps involved in an audiometry test:
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The individual is asked to sit in a soundproof booth or room and is asked to wear headphones.
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The audiologist presents a series of sounds at various frequencies and volumes via headphones.
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The individual indicates whether they are able to hear each sound by either pressing the button or raising their hand.
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The test is recorded by the audiologist, and the results are plotted on an audiogram.
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The test is repeated for both ears to check the accuracy.
What Are the Types of Audiometry Tests?
There are several types of audiometry test which includes the following:
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Pure-tone Audiometry - In pure tone audiometry, the individual’s ability to measure sound frequencies (pitch) at specific decibel levels are evaluated. It uses headphones, and diagnostic equipment called an audiometer, to present the sounds to the person being tested. The person signals when they hear a sound, and the results are plotted on an audiogram to assess the type and degree of hearing loss. A bone oscillator may also be used to test bone conduction by placing it against the mastoid bone.
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Speech Audiometry - The test mainly focuses on the ability to detect and repeat spoken words at different volumes. It is a type of hearing test that measures the ability to understand speech. This test evaluates the individual’s speech reception threshold, which is the softest level of speech that can be understood, and also assesses the person’s ability to understand speech in noisy environments.
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Impedance Audiometry - This ear test measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. It uses a small probe that is placed in the ear and generates sound waves. The probe additionally measures the changes in air pressure, and movement of the eardrum caused due to sound waves. The test results help to evaluate the functions of the middle ear and also determine any blockages caused by the fluid, perforated eardrum, or foreign objects. This test is usually performed in conjunction with other types of hearing tests, like pure-tone audiometry and speech audiometry, to get a complete picture of an individual’s hearing abilities.
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Otoacoustic Emission - It is a type of hearing test that measures the sounds that are naturally produced by the inner ear or cochlea in response to sound stimulation. In this test, a small probe is placed in the ear, and a series of sounds are presented. The probe measures the sounds that are emitted by the cochlea in response to the stimulation. The results of the test help to determine the functions of the inner ear and if there are damages in the hair cell and cochlea, which are responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain. The tests are quick and non-invasive and may not require any response from the person being tested. It is especially useful in infants and young children.
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Auditory Brainstem Response Test - This test measures the electrical activity of the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound stimulation. It uses small electrodes placed in the skin to detect the electrical activity of the auditory nerve and brainstem. The test is often used to diagnose hearing loss in newborns and young children. It also evaluates the function of the auditory nerve in individuals with acoustic neuroma.
How Long Does an Audiometry Take?
The duration of the test can typically range from 30 minutes to an hour, and the individual is usually requested to remain still and quiet during the test. The test results are helpful in diagnosing various hearing problems, monitoring changes in hearing over time and guiding the development of a treatment plan.
Are There Any Risks Involved in Audiometry Tests?
Audiometry tests are usually safe and non-invasive. There are no serious risks associated. Some individuals may experience minor discomforts like the fullness of the ear or temporary hearing loss. However, these side effects are temporary and resolve on their own.
Conclusion
An audiometry test is a simple and non-invasive method used to evaluate the hearing ability of an individual. There are different types of audiometry tests that help to evaluate the damage that occurred at different levels. Depending on the test results, the doctor may suggest using hearing aids, a piece of medical equipment that helps to amplify sound according to the individual’s need. Testing the ears with audiometry and diagnosing hearing issues can help to suggest treatment promptly.
