What An Audiometer Hearing Test Entails

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 several types of audiometers. Some are hardware based and others rely heavily on software. The basic types can be used at home by people who want to find out their hearing levels. The audiometers used in clinics are more expensive. This is because they are more accurate and their efficiency is higher. Calibration determines how precise a device is.

If you think that your ears are not working very well it is advisable to take an audiometer hearing test. Doctors carry out basic tests before using audiometers on their patients. They might start by using tuning forks. The initial screening determines whether you require a thorough test to be done. Audiometers are only used after it has been decided that you need a thorough screening. This device is used by audiologists.

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.

Before the test starts you need to wear headphones. They should fit well on your ears. This prevents any sounds from the room from getting into the ears. When the test begins you should hear sound getting into your ears. This should happen one at a time because each ear should be checked individually. This is important to determine whether hearing loss is affecting both ears or just one.

The sound in the head phones is switched to various frequencies and levels. This helps to identify the levels that you can hear and those that you cannot. Depending with the specialist you may be required to use the feedback button or your arms to indicate when you hear a sound. The tone will keep varying.

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.

An audiometer hearing test is very important when you have hearing loss. It provides information that is used to come up with the right solution. Doctors will determine the right form of treatment after seeing the results.




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