Hearing tests 

A hearing test often comprises a number of different examinations which, when taken together, determine whether or not a person is suffering from hearing loss, and to what extent. In many cases, the examinations may identify the causes of the hearing loss, as well.

The hearing health care professional often starts off by asking the patient some questions relating to the hearing problems.

Following the initial conversation, the hearing health care professional examines the ears with a special instrument called an otoscope. The otoscope allows him/her to determine whether the hearing loss is due to damage to the ear canal or to the eardrum.

Different hearing tests

The next phase of the examination is the main hearing test conducted in a closed, soundproof room. The main hearing test often includes the following tests which, together, help to determine the nature of the hearing loss.

• The pure tone test
• The speech test
• The middle ear test

Based on the initial conversation and the tests the hearing health care professional is able to determine the nature and extent of the detected hearing loss. In cooperation with the patient he or she is then able to decide on the best course of action, e.g. hearing aids, implants or other treatment.