Hearing test (audiometry)

When is a hearing test needed?

A hearing test is usually carried out in case of complaints such as:

• Reduced hearing in one or both ears
• Difficulty understanding speech in groups or noisy surroundings
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• A full or pressing sensation in the ear
• Sudden hearing loss
• Follow-up of known hearing problems or hearing aids

How does the test work?

You sit in a soundproof booth to exclude background noise. You will wear headphones or earplugs. Sometimes a bone conductor (vibrating device) is also used to determine whether hearing problems are caused in the inner ear or middle ear.

Depending on your situation, your hearing test may be based on tones or words.

• Tone audiometry: You hear tones of different pitches and volumes through headphones. You're asked to give a signal (press a button, raise your hand...) when you hear a sound. This is how we measure your hearing threshold.
• Speech audiometry: You hear words and repeat what you heard. This is how we test how well you understand speech.
• Tympanometry: This is how we test the mobility of the eardrum and pressure in the middle ear.
• Otoacoustic emissions (OAE): This test measures the function of the hair cells in the inner ear. This test is fully objective and is often used when there is doubt about the results (e.g. in children).

Results

The doctor will discuss the results right away or at a follow-up appointment. Depending on the cause, you will be advised on possible treatments such as removal of earwax, the use of a hearing aid or further testing.