Traditional VS Online
A hearing test is a way for doctors to check your ears. It’s not just about how well you can hear but also how well your brain processes sound.
What is a hearing test? A hearing test is a way for doctors to check your ears. It’s not just about how well you can hear but also how well your brain processes sound. Audiologists use it to make sure that everything is functioning properly and that there are no problems with the way you hear things.
The older people get, the more likely that hearing will be compromised. Hearing loss is now present in about 14% of people between 45 and 64 years old but can reach up to 30% for those over 65-years-old. That’s why it’s wise to get your hearing tested every few years. Experts recommend that adults get their hearing tested every 10 years until age 50 and then once a year after that.
Why Would I Need a Hearing Test?
You may suspect you have hearing loss, or someone close to you might suggest it.
You might notice that in a crowded room, people’s voices seem muffled, or the volume of the TV needs to be at a higher level than usual.
It’s important to get a regular hearing test because a lot of people don’t know they have progressive hearing loss until it’s too late.
Hearing loss can happen gradually, causing it to go unnoticed, so it’s best to be get regular hearing tests and be diagnosed in the early stages.
Causes of Hearing Loss in Adults
Several things can cause hearing loss, including:
- Loud noises
- Head trauma
- Ear infections
- Excess ear wax
- Certain medications
- Aging in general
- Medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, etc.
Older adults with untreated hearing loss are more likely to feel left out of social events because they can’t hear what’s happening. They might stop seeing their friends or family as often, embarrassed that they cannot hear well. Such social isolation can even contribute to depression.
What to Expect During the Test
A hearing test is a painless, quick process that should take no more than 30 minutes.
When you take a hearing test, the audiologist will ask you to wear earphones and listen to different tones that are played at various volumes. If there is some discrepancy between your left and right ears in terms of sound sensitivity, then they’ll use this data as part of their diagnosis process.
During a hearing test, you may be asked to listen to speech at different volumes, which will be played into one ear at a time. The voices that are coming from your headphones will sound quieter or louder as you get through the test.
Hearing Tests: Traditional vs Online
The key differences between an online hearing test and getting a hearing test at an audiology clinic comes down to accuracy and the interpretation of the results.
With an in-person hearing test, we can look into your ears to check for ear wax or other issues. Plus, you have someone walking you through the hearing test, answering questions, and taking the time to get the best measurements.
Seeking out evaluation by a certified audiologist who can complete a thorough examination of your ears before giving any professional opinion on your condition is the best way to go.
An audiologist at one of our locations is only a few clicks away- just schedule an appointment with us to get a comprehensive hearing test.
Hearing Test Results
Hearing tests are not a pass-fail exam, but the results can show how well your ears work. A hearing test measures whether you have any loss of hearing in one or both ears and determines how much hearing is lost at several frequencies.
A hearing test identifies the severity and degree of hearing loss in an individual. It measures how well people can hear by testing your ability to hear different frequencies and tones.
A comprehensive hearing evaluation helps audiologists provide the most appropriate treatment for your hearing needs, whatever they may be.
Hearing Loss Treatment
Removing impacted earwax is the most basic step in treating hearing loss. Some people can hear better once the blockage is removed.
If you find out that you need to wear hearing aids, there are many different styles to choose from. Some modern hearing aid technology may allow for additional features such as Bluetooth streaming of phone calls and music or streaming of concerts and lectures through a telecoil.
If ever hearing aids don’t work, an audiologist may offer cochlear implants as an alternative. A surgical procedure may also be explored, especially with hearing loss that deals with abnormalities of the eardrum or ossicles.
Hearing Test Massachusetts: If you think you need a hearing test, don’t hesitate! Get one today so we can help if something isn’t right with your ears. We want to keep them healthy for as long as possible. Schedule an appointment for a hearing test at Atlantic Hearing Care; we have clinics in Swampscott or Peabody, so choose whichever is the most convenient to you.
The first step towards better hearing health is an appointment with our expert staff. Contact us today: