What Is a Hearing Test?
Main Purpose of a Hearing Test
The purpose of a hearing test is to identify the degree and type of hearing loss. This helps the specialist make an accurate diagnosis and recommend the right treatment or hearing aid.
Why Is Early Diagnosis Important?
The earlier a hearing problem is detected, the easier it is to manage. In children especially, hearing directly affects speech development.
What Types of Hearing Tests Are There?
1. Audiometry
Pure Tone Audiometry
The patient hears sounds of various frequencies and volumes through headphones. They press a button or raise a hand when they hear a sound. This determines their hearing threshold.
Speech Audiometry
The patient is asked to repeat words or phrases read to them. This checks how well they understand and distinguish speech sounds.
2. Tympanometry
This test measures the mobility of the eardrum. A small probe is inserted into the ear, changing the air pressure and recording the eardrum’s response. It helps detect fluid in the middle ear, blockages, or eardrum damage.
3. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE)
Used mainly for newborns. A soft sound is sent into the ear through a special probe. If the cochlea is working properly, it produces a sound response, which is recorded by the device.
4. Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA)
Used for children aged 6–24 months. A sound is played, and when the child responds (like turning their head), they’re rewarded with an animation or light, encouraging them to react to sounds.
How Is a Hearing Test Done?
Preparation
No special preparation is needed. Just make sure you are well-rested and not experiencing a cold or congestion.
Procedure
The patient sits in a special soundproof booth. Headphones are placed on their ears, and different tones are played. The specialist may use other methods depending on the patient's age and hearing condition.
Results
Results are shown on an audiogram—a graph that displays the frequencies and volumes a person can hear. The specialist explains what the chart means.
Who Should Take a Hearing Test?
Newborns and Children
Testing within the first months of life is essential to catch any hearing problems early.
Adults and Elderly People
Hearing declines with age. Regular testing helps detect problems early and manage them effectively.
People Working in Noisy Environments
Those working in factories, airports, construction sites, etc., should get tested yearly.
When Should You Get a Hearing Test?
- Do you often ask people to repeat themselves?
- Is it hard to understand speech in noisy places?
- Do you hear ringing in your ears?
- Do you feel hearing is worse in one ear?
If you answered "yes" to any of these, it’s time to get tested.
What Devices Help With Hearing Loss?
Hearing aids are modern, digital, Bluetooth-enabled, and waterproof. They help you not only hear better but live more comfortably. A doctor will recommend the right model based on your test results.
Where Can You Get a Quality Hearing Test in Azerbaijan?
You can visit our center, “Avaz Eşitmə və Nitq Mərkəzi.” We offer:
- professional specialists
- modern diagnostic equipment
- tests for both children and adults
- free initial consultation
Conclusion
A hearing test is a simple yet essential step toward a better life. Don’t wait until the issue becomes serious. Regular hearing checks help you maintain health, speech, and connection to the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is a hearing test painful?
Not at all. It’s a completely painless process.
2. How long does the test take?
Usually between 15 and 30 minutes.
3. Can a baby under one year old be tested?
Yes, there are special testing methods for infants.
4. Can hearing aids restore hearing completely?
No, but they greatly improve your ability to hear and understand.
5. How often should I take a hearing test?
Children: yearly. Adults: every 2–3 years or when symptoms arise.