What Happens At A Hearing Test? | Hearing Health Awareness Month

As it’s Hearing Health Awareness Month, the team wants to provide you with extra information about all things related to audiology. One of the questions that our specialists get asked regularly is: “So what happens during a hearing test?” This is not that surprising. We know what happens at an eye examination, but oddly, hearing tests aren’t discussed in the same way.

The good news is that they don’t hurt, and they’re quick and simple. If you feel ready to begin your journey to better hearing, this is what you can expect during your first hearing test.

‘LISTEN FOR THE BEEPS’

The hearing test is split into two different sections. Both are conducted using a set of noise-canceling headphones.

The first will test your overall hearing capacity. Your specialist will play you a set of tones that decrease in volume, and it’s your job to push a button each time you can hear something. If you have a hearing loss, your specialist will then analyze which part of your ear might be causing the problem.

Your specialist will provide you with a referral to an ENT physician should you have nerve damage or would benefit from a surgical procedure. However, this isn’t common, and more often, you’ll progress to the next test, which will evaluate your hearing capability in a different context.

THE SPEECH TEST

Often people with a hearing loss struggle to communicate in noisy environments – like a bustling restaurant where there’s ambient music playing.

The second hearing test will monitor how well you can understand specific kinds of speech during these situations. You’ll just be asked to repeat certain phrases with your specialist instructing you throughout the process. The reason for this is it will demonstrate how well your brain is processing words and phrases, further data for measuring your overall hearing capacity. This test will also set the benchmark for what can be achieved with advanced technologies.

THE OUTCOME

Although these tests take only 15 to 20 minutes to complete, the initial assessment period can last up to one and a half hours in total. This is because your specialist will spend time discussing your particular needs, requirements, and ambitions for the future.

And once they’ve determined the nature and extent of your hearing loss, you’ll get the chance to try on a pair of hearing aids and experience the difference. If you’re ready to invest in hearing technology, they can then fit you with your personalized devices on the same day. You can also trial a pair, free of charge, for up to a week to make sure they’re just right for you.

Are you concerned about a hearing loss or know someone who is? Contact the team at Hearing at Home, and they’ll be able to help you right away!