Hearing Test

Table of contents

Hearing Test - what is it and how the test is done

Do you often ask people to repeat whatever they just said? If that happens quite often, you might have to go for a hearing test. There is a possibility that you are missing some sounds which you are not even aware of. This will validate the nature and severity of your hearing loss.
There are seven types of hearing tests. These tests are painless and secure. They are usually done in a soundproof studio with specially adapted earphones. These tests' results are displayed on an audiogram, which is a graphic illustration of your level of hearing loss.

Pure Tone Testing
This test measures your capacity to perceive sounds at a variable frequency and loudness using air conduction.


Bone Conduction Test
This second pure-tone test assesses your inner ear's reaction to sound.

Speech Testing
This testing is done to determine speech transmission threshold (SRT), the lowest sound you can comprehend half of the time.

Tympanometry
This test detects fluid buildup, wax buildup, eardrum perforations, and malignancies.

Acoustic Reflex Analysis
This test detects the spontaneous muscular contractions of the middle ear and is employed to determine the location and type of hearing loss.

Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
This testing is used to assess if a specific type of hearing loss, known as sensorineural hearing loss, is present. It's also commonly used to check babies for hearing issues.

For further reading about Hearing Test, please check NHS

Written by Dr. Andleeb Asghar | Last updated on 17/08/2022

Common conditions covered by a Hearing Test

Hearing loss Allergies Common Cold Ear infections Impacted earwax

Where to get a Hearing Test

Hearing Test at-Home and Self Tests