Hearing Tests

Hearing loss issues are consistently one of the top reported health conditions for many Americans, including our military service members and veterans. Yet it is also one of the most under-treated. For example: did you know that 80% of hearing losses can be treated with hearing aids, but only one in four individuals who could benefit from using hearing aids currently owns them?

At The Hearing Doctors, we’re dedicated to bringing affordable hearing solutions – but it all begins with the hearing test. Hearing tests are relatively quick and pain-free examinations that measure how well the different parts of the ear work. Together, the different assessments describe to an audiologist the type and degree of hearing loss you have. 

Types of hearing tests

Your audiologist will use a battery of tests to determine if you have any degree of hearing loss and the extent of your issues, including: 

  • Communication assessment: A communication assessment is an examination performed on children who may have hearing loss. The communication assessment determines any deficiencies or issues a young person may have in their communication styles, including speech, listening, reading or writing. 
  • Otoscopy: An otoscopy is a type of hearing test that examines the tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum.
  • Audiogram: An audiogram is a type of hearing test performed in a soundproof room. This test determines the softest sounds a person can hear at different pitches or frequencies.
  • Tympanogram: During a tympanogram, an audiologist will examine how well the middle ear is functioning. 
  • Hearing aid evaluation/consultation: The first step to better hearing is a hearing aid evaluation. During a hearing aid evaluation, an audiologist will perform a series of tests to determine the type and degree of hearing loss you may have. 

What to expect

Hearing tests are relatively pain-free; in fact, there’s really nothing to worry about as you enter the appointment. At The Hearing Doctors, we want you to be at ease, which is why we’re open to all questions before, during and after the appointment. 

The hearing test appointment will require you to react or respond to stimuli, including sounds or speech. You will usually respond by pressing a button or raising your hand, depending on the type of test. 

At the end of the testing or appointment, it isn’t uncommon to feel tired. That’s why it’s important to bring a friend or someone you love and trust, in case you do have questions or concerns during the appointment. That person can be a second set of ears and eyes for you to ask questions and write any answers down. 

When to have your hearing tested

If you’re healthy and haven’t experienced hearing issues, you should have a baseline hearing test conducted by your 50th birthday, with annual follow-ups afterward. Individuals who work in noisy or hazardous environments should get an initial hearing test as soon as possible. Annual hearing tests help you and our audiologists establish a hearing history that can be used over time as a comparison so that future problems can be identified and addressed. Contact The Hearing Doctors to schedule your hearing test appointment today.