Audiometry is a test used to assess hearing ability. It is particularly used to measure hearing levels in people with ear disorders, hearing loss or other hearing health problems. Audiometry tests use different methods to determine hearing ability at different sound frequencies and intensities.

When a hearing loss is suspected: If there is a decrease in hearing ability, tinnitus or difficulty responding to sounds.

Ear infections: Hearing tests may be performed after recurrent ear infections or inflammation.

Occupational risks: People who work in noisy environments may undergo audiometric testing to detect hearing loss early.

Ageing: To diagnose age-related hearing loss (presbycusis).

Hearing screening in children: Routine tests given to children to detect hearing loss at an early age.

Newborn hearing screening: A screening test recommended within 48 hours of birth or during the first month of life to detect early hearing loss in newborns. As hearing loss can affect language and communication development, this test helps to initiate early treatment and rehabilitation.

Pure tone audiometry: This test measures how well sounds of different frequencies (high and low pitches) and intensities (decibel levels) are heard. The audiologist plays sounds through headphones and the patient reports which sounds they can hear.

Conductive audiometry: This test determines whether hearing loss is due to conductive problems (in the middle ear or eardrum). It measures the ability of sound to travel from the ear canal to the inner ear.

Bone conduction audiometry: Instead of using the eardrum, sound transmission is measured using a vibrating device placed on the skull behind the ear. This test is used to assess the function of the inner ear.

Tympanometry: Tympanometry measures the pressure and movement of the eardrum and middle ear. It can detect fluid in the middle ear or other obstructions.

Speech audiometry: This test assesses a person’s ability to hear and correctly understand words or sentences. Speech sounds are presented at specific intensities and frequencies.

Preparation: Before the test, your ears should be cleaned and the environment should be quiet. Sometimes treatment or cleaning may be needed to remove any ear blockage.

Test steps: The patient wears headphones for the test in a quiet room. Sounds of different frequencies and decibels are presented. The patient indicates which sounds they hear by pressing a button or using another method.

Results: A report is generated based on the hearing levels and the type of hearing loss detected. The results indicate the degree of hearing loss and which frequencies are affected.

Early detection of hearing loss: Audiometry helps to detect hearing loss early and guide patients towards appropriate treatment.

Create a treatment plan: Depending on the type and severity of hearing loss, recommendations may include hearing aids, surgery or rehabilitation.

Occupational health: For people at risk of noise induced hearing loss, audiometry helps to monitor and protect their hearing.

Audiometry is a reliable test that plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of hearing loss. Early detection can prevent further deterioration and guide the choice of appropriate treatment. Screening, such as new-born hearing screening, provides an opportunity to protect hearing health early in life.