It’s natural to think that your hearing only gets worse as you age, but sometimes you may not notice that you’re not picking up on sounds or conversations as clearly as you did before. While a hearing test may seem daunting or intimidating, it could be one of the best decisions you make in your life.
What does a hearing test look like?
A hearing test is an examination of your hearing across the full range of speech. When you go in for a hearing test, your audiologist will first begin by looking into your ear for any obstructions such as excessive wax that could hinder or even delay the exam. Next, they will administer one or more of the following tests:
– Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR Test): Four electrodes are attached to the scalp and headphones placed inside the ears to measure responses to clicking sounds.
– Otoacoustic Emission (OAE Test): Earphones are placed in the ear canal to measure cochlear responses to clicking sounds.
– Electronystagmography (ENG)/Videonystagmography (VNG): Electrodes or video goggles are used to test for causes of vertigo, dizziness, or balance dysfunction.
Why is a hearing test important?
When you receive a hearing test, you’re taking an important step towards healthy ears. These tests are useful by:
Determining the cause of your hearing loss
Hearing loss can happen over time or very suddenly, sometimes in ways that you don’t recognize. A hearing test can help pinpoint exactly how it happened and lead to proper treatment options.
Providing a referral for hearing aids or cochlear implants
If your hearing loss is considered significant, you may need the help of supplemental sources. Depending on what your results say, you could be a candidate for hearing aids or cochlear implants in one or both ears.
Becoming a part of your annual health check
Even if you’re not concerned about hearing loss, your ear health is still very important. Adding a hearing test to your annual physicals can be a great way to maintain overall wellness and give you a heads up on any diminished hearing.
When you’re looking for a hearing test, it’s important to have the right specialist in mind. CEENTA’s team of highly-trained audiologists can administer the right hearing test for you and lead you on the path to clearer hearing. Schedule an appointment with a CEENTA audiologist today for hearing that just makes sense.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor. New patients can make appointments online with any of our ENT doctors in North and South Carolina. Current patients can also make appointments through myCEENTAchart with physicians they have already seen.
Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates
