What to Expect at a Hearing Test

If you can’t remember the last time you had your hearing checked, it’s something to put on the to-do list! With routine visits to the eye doctor and the dentist, your ears are getting the short end of the stick. Hearing loss is gradual, so it’s important to see an audiologist for a baseline test so that your hearing can be monitored as you age. Here’s what to expect at a hearing test.

The examination

When you make the appointment with an audiologist for a hearing test, expect to be there about an hour. The exam is more than just a hearing test. The audiologist will examine your ears and check for any earwax blockages or infections or other problems. You’ll also discuss your medical history, including any medications you take and how they may affect your hearing. To prepare for this part of the appointment, it’s a good idea to take along your medical history, a list of medications and write down any questions you may have. If you like, you can have a friend or family member along for support.

The hearing tests

Usually at least two or three hearing tests are performed during this appointment. Each test contributes to the “big picture” so your audiologist can determine if you have any hearing loss and how best to treat those losses.

The most familiar test is a pure-tone test. It’s likely you had a similar test in elementary school! This test is done in a soundproof room. You wear headphones and listen for specific tones, which are loud and soft as well as higher-pitched and lower-pitched. You identify in which ear you hear the sound. This checks your range of hearing.

Another possible test is the speech test. This may be done by the audiologist or you may listen to a recording. Words are spoken very softly and you must repeat them. Because you can’t see the tester speaking the words, this test determines how well you hear words without visual information.

A tuning fork test may also be performed. It checks for conductive or nerve issues. A tuning fork is placed near each ear and then is tapped. You describe how the tone sounds to you.

The results

Your audiologist may show you a detailed print out of your results and discuss them with you. It charts where your hearing falls within normal and abnormal ranges. By pinpointing your exact hearing issues, the audiologist can suggest the best ways to improve your hearing, which may include hearing aids, earwax removal or other solutions.

If your results indicate you need hearing aids, you can begin that process at this appointment. You’ll look at different styles of units and determine which fits your budget and lifestyle.

Once you know what to expect at a hearing test, you’ll be more at ease during the appointment and better prepared to move ahead with solutions to improve your hearing.