Hearing Assessment

If you have been referred for a hearing assessment, it means that your hearing needs to be further examined. A diagnostic audiologic assessment may be indicated for individuals who did not pass an initial hearing screening.

The assessment is done to determine if a hearing loss is present and, if so, to detail the type and severity of the hearing loss. It also may provide insight into the cause of the hearing loss as well as provide guidance for our hearing healthcare professionals in making appropriate treatment recommendations- or referrals to other professionals.

The specific tests done during the assessment will depend on the client’s age, symptoms and medical history. These various tests will determine the degree of hearing loss, the type of hearing loss and the conditions of the ear canal and middle ear. The hearing healthcare professional will also establish if the hearing loss is conductive (middle or outer ear problem) or sensorineural (inner ear problem or an issue with the auditory nerve and central auditory pathways).

At a minimum, a hearing assessment includes pure-tone testing, bone conduction testing and speech testing.

Pure-tone testing determines the quietest tones that a person can hear at different frequencies, both low and high. Bone conduction testing is similar to pure-tone, however, a different type of headset is used to provide the audiologist with different information. A bone conduction test will help the hearing healthcare professional determine whether the loss is conductive in nature or sensorineural.

Speech testing

A speech reception threshold (SRT) test is used to confirm the results of a pure-tone test. This test determines the lowest level of sound the client can clearly identify words or speech.

Additional tests:

The hearing healthcare professional will also perform otoscopy (physical examination of the outer ear and, ear canal and eardrum).

The assessment will last about 30-40 minutes in length. You should also allow time for discussion with the audiologist to review test results and ask questions.

If the results indicate you need hearing aids, allow for enough time to discuss your options.

It is recommended that you bring a family member with you to the assessment appointment. Most hearing healthcare professionals agree that hearing loss is a family issue. It helps to have another supportive person at the appointment to help you understand the information and recommendations.

Before your appointment, a complete medical history will be completed and the audiologist will want to hear about any complaints you have about your hearing. They will pay special attention to any concerns you have about exposure to noise, tinnitus and balance problems. Make sure that you take a full list of any medications and supplements you are taking with you to your appointment.

The hearing assessment is a good chance to establish a relationship with your hearing healthcare professional. Above all, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You will want to be clear on any information you receive so that you can be an active participant in finding hearing solutions that work best for you and your lifestyle.