What Happens During a Hearing Evaluation?
If you’ve been experiencing hearing difficulties or suspect you may have hearing loss, a hearing evaluation can help you understand your hearing health. This painless and straightforward procedure is conducted by an audiologist to assess how well you can hear sounds.
Plus, they can examine whether corrective action, such as hearing aids, might be necessary. Knowing what to expect during the process can help ease any concerns and prepare you for the evaluation.
Initial Consultation and Medical History
Your hearing evaluation will typically begin with a consultation, during which the audiologist or hearing specialist will ask questions about your medical history.
They may inquire about symptoms you’ve noticed, such as difficulty understanding speech, ringing ears (tinnitus), exposure to loud environments, etc. This conversation helps the specialist tailor the evaluation to your needs and concerns.
Physical Examination of the Ear
Next, the audiologist will conduct a physical examination of your ears using an instrument called an otoscope. They can check for any blockages, such as earwax buildup, or signs of infection or damage to the ear canal or eardrum.
A physical examination ensures that there are no external factors contributing to hearing loss. It provides a clearer picture of your ear’s overall health.
Hearing Tests
The main part of a hearing evaluation involves a series of hearing tests designed to measure different aspects of your hearing. One common test is pure-tone audiometry, where you’ll wear headphones and listen to tones at different frequencies and volumes.
You’ll indicate when you hear each sound by pressing a button. This test helps determine the softest sounds you can hear at various pitches.
Results and Recommendations
Once the tests are complete, the audiologist will review the results with you. They will explain your hearing ability, discuss whether any hearing loss is present, and suggest potential treatment options if necessary.
If hearing aids or other interventions are necessary, the specialist will guide you through the next steps.
Book Your Hearing Evaluation in Rockwall, TX
A hearing evaluation can diagnose hearing loss and your provider can develop a plan to improve your hearing, and your quality of life. If you're experiencing hearing issues, don't hesitate to call us at 972-771-5443 and schedule an evaluation with Lakeside Allergy Ear Nose and Throat. Feel free to visit our offices at Forney and Rockwall.