Hearing is something many of us take for granted and rely on heavily without even noticing. But when you start experiencing problems with your hearing, we know it can be frustrating and worrying. That’s why we’ve put together this quick guide to outline the different types of ear tests so you can find out what help is available to put your mind to rest.
What is an ear test?
Ear tests, also known as hearing tests, are used to identify if you’re suffering from hearing loss. Usually carried out by audiologists like our expert team in our BSHAA-accredited (The British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists) Hear Pure Clinics, hearing tests can also determine if the hearing loss is mild, moderate or severe and if it needs immediate assistance.
What types of hearing tests are there?
There are several tests an audiologist can do to help you if you’re experiencing issues with hearing. The most common types of tests examine how you respond to sounds of different pitches, tones, and volumes or within environments with different noise levels. Types of ear test a healthcare professional may ask you to take part in include:
Acoustic reflex measures: This test measures how well your ear responds to loud sounds. Usually, an audiologist will play a series of loud sounds through soft rubber tips inside the ear and a machine will register when, or if, the sound has triggered an ‘acoustic reflex’ when a small muscle inside the ear contracts when it hears loud noises.
Bone conduction testing: This type of test identifies if you have a build-up of fluid or wax within your outer or inner ear.
Pure-tone testing: Common among children and adults this type of hearing test checks the quietest volume you can hear at each pitch.
Otoacoustic emissions test: This is a test that your audiologist may use to check how your inner and middle ear function.
Speech and recognition testing: Very common among adults, speech testing involves monitoring how well you understand someone talking to you to determine hearing loss. The audiologist will ask you to listen to and repeat certain words at a variety of volumes.
Tympanometry: This test involves air being pushed into your ear to check how well your eardrum moves. Healthcare professionals may do tympanometry tests to see if there is an ear infection a ruptured eardrum or a build-up of fluid in the inner ear.
Who should get their hearing tested?
Anyone who has noticed a marked difference in their hearing, or thinks that they are struggling to hear or understand when someone is talking to them should book an ear test. Having regular hearing tests - just like your dental or eye check-ups - can relieve worry and ensure that when there is a problem, you receive help as quickly as possible.
Book your hearing test with Hear Pure today
If someone you care about is experiencing hearing difficulties, or you are worried about your hearing, our friendly team of qualified hearing professionals is here to help you. We understand that dealing with hearing loss can feel isolating, and our expert audiologists are on hand to offer honest advice and support throughout your hearing journey. Find out more about booking your free hearing test in Chester with us here.