Taking a hearing test can feel a little nerve-wracking, especially if you’re unsure on what to expect. In this guide, we’ll share what a hearing test involves and how you can prepare.
What Is a Hearing Test and How Can You Prepare?
A hearing test is a simple exam that checks how well you can hear different sounds and understand speech. It is usually performed by an audiologist or a hearing specialist. The test measures your ability to hear different tones, pitches, and volumes.
Before the actual hearing test begins, the specialist will start with a conversation about your ear health and hearing history. This helps them understand any past issues that could affect your hearing.
What They Might Ask
The audiologist or hearing specialist will likely ask questions such as:
- Have you noticed any changes in your hearing?
- Do you have ringing, buzzing, or pain in your ears?
- Have you had ear infections or injuries in the past?
- Are you often exposed to loud noises, like concerts, power tools, or machinery?
- Do you have any family history of hearing loss?
This chat helps the specialist choose the right tests for you. For example, if you mention ringing in your ears, like tinnitus, they may do extra tests to check for that. If you work in a noisy environment, they might look for early signs of noise-related hearing loss.
Types of Hearing Tests
If you’ve been looking for a Hearing Test Tewkesbury has a number of providers, such as https://www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/tewkesbury, who will be able to thoroughly test for any issues.
Most hearing tests include:
- Pure-Tone Test You’ll wear headphones and listen to beeps at different pitches and volumes. You’ll press a button or raise your hand when you hear a sound.
- Speech Test You’ll hear words spoken at different volumes and repeat them back. This helps measure how well you understand speech.
- Tympanometry Test
A small device is placed in your ear to check how well your eardrum moves. This test helps detect fluid buildup or other ear problems.