Hearing Tests 101: A Complete Guide

Hearing tests are important for everyone to have done, even if you don’t think you have hearing loss. They help confirm whether or not you have any hearing loss. These tests are usually quick, easy and painless. So, what can you expect with getting a hearing test?

When Should You Book a Hearing Test?

If you’re over the age of 18 and under the age of 50, hearing tests should be carried out once every 10 years. If you’re over the age of 50, you should get a test done around every three years. For those aged 65 and over, you should get your hearing checked once a year. However, if you haven’t had a test done since you were a child, it’s best to schedule a test as soon as possible.

What to Expect During a Hearing Test

A hearing test has a few components to it. If you want to, you should bring someone along with you, to be there for support and they can catch anything you may miss. Once you’re in the room with your hearing care provider, they’ll ask a few questions about your hearing history. This allows them to understand any symptoms of hearing loss you may be living with, and whether your hearing has changed in recent years or not.

Then you’ll move on to the actual test itself. This will usually be a pure-tone test, which involves pure tone sounds or signals being played into your ears, with you simply needing to indicate when you can hear them. This may involve pressing a button, but most of the time it simply means raising your hand where the hearing health professional can see.

Your Treatment Options if You Have Hearing Loss

When the test is over, your hearing health professional will have an audiogram to look over. This will tell them if you’re experiencing hearing loss, what type of hearing loss and what level of hearing loss. You can ask questions about each of these to make sure you understand what the audiogram depicts.

You may then be offered hearing aids, which are the most accessible and convenient way to treat hearing loss. Hearing aids can be fitted in a variety of ways, both on and in the ear, and can be customized according to your personal style and taste in color. There are various types of hearing aids on the market that your hearing health professional can recommend to match the needs of your hearing loss. If you have questions about wearing your hearing aids, make sure you let your hearing care provider know.

Get a Hearing Test Done

Taking care of your hearing health continues even after the test is over. Regular check-ups and following your hearing health professional’s advice are important for keeping your hearing in good shape over time. If you have any questions or concerns about the process or your hearing health, don’t hesitate to ask. If you want to learn more about hearing tests, schedule an appointment with a hearing health professional.