Hi lovelies,

If you or a loved one has noticed some diminished hearing or issues associated with your hearing, you may be thinking about going to a local audiologist or hearing center to get a hearing test. It’s totally understandable if you’re feeling a bit of nerves - any medical tests and screens can be a little stressful. But not to worry: hearing tests are a painless, quick and generally easy process that is well worth doing. Your audiologist can screen you for a variety of hearing issues and conditions related to the ears, and help you get a course of treatment/hearing devices based on your diagnosis. 

So what is the process of having a hearing test like? Yours will likely go just like this:

First, you’ll schedule an appointment at a local hearing center or clinic with an audiologist. In many cases, you’ll have an initial consult where you’ll speak to the doctor about the specific issues you’re experiencing. They’ll ask you questions about your hearing difficulties, any illnesses or injuries you’ve had, any other issues you’re experiencing such as pain, balance issues, and so on. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions also. 

Once the hearing test portion begins, you’ll first be administered a series of tones - this test is called pure tone audiometry, and it’s fairly easy. These tones will consist of a variety of decibels and frequencies, pitches and volumes, and you’ll alert the doctor when you hear them. 

Next, you may be asked to wear a set of headphones, listen to various sounds and words, and asked to repeat what you hear. This test, called a speech audiometry, determines how well you not only hear sounds, but if you’re able to enunciate them clearly back. The accuracy of your speech will determine a number of different things.

You may also have your ears physically checked, a test known as tympanometry. This includes testing your eardrum as well as the muscles inside your ear. 

Once these tests are completed, the audiologist will go over the results with you, letting you know your score and if you got a pass/fail. Don’t worry too much about these results - many people who “fail” their hearing test can still go on to live happy lives without losing their hearing completely. Depending on your diagnosis, you may be advised different courses of treatment, the most common being a hearing aid or device. YOur audiologist will go over these options with you, and should you choose to get one, can help you pick out the proper one according to your needs, preferences, and budget.

The entire process of getting a hearing test is easy, totally painless and free of discomfort, and generally done in a half-hour or so. Many insurance companies cover hearing tests, but speak to your audiologist about payment options if you’re concerned about the cost. There’s no reason not to go and have that hearing test today. If you’re experiencing diminished hearing, make an appointment today to find the solution.