The hearing assessment is made up of a number of steps - but what are they and how do they help? Hearing assessments are essential in giving people an insight into their current hearing levels and what their options could be to potentially improve what they can hear and maintain a good quality of life.
Step 1 - Patient History
We check your history - the jobs you've done in the past, hobbies etc; the more we can establish, the better we can identify issues you may be having and some of the causes.
Step 2 - Otoscopy
This is the first stage of examining the ear - this looks at the outer ear, namely your ear canal and ear drum, checking for wax blockages or inflammation. If you have a lot of wax build-up, we can provide wax removal for you if you wish. If there is inflammation, we may refer you to your GP for further investigation if needed.
Step 3 - Audiometry
Hearing loss is measured by finding the quietest sounds someone can hear using tones with different frequencies. This entire process is called audiometry. First, you will be asked to put on a set of headphones and to respond by pressing a button when you can hear a tone or think you've heard it. The level of the tone is adjusted until we get an accurate idea of what you can truly hear at the minimum level. This level is called the threshold.
Thresholds are measured in units called dBHL – dB stands for decibels and HL stands for ‘hearing level’. Anyone with thresholds between 0 and 20 dBHL across all the frequencies is considered to have 'normal' hearing. The greater the threshold level is, the worse the hearing loss.
The second test is a bone conductivity test which enables the audiologist to test the inner ear. You will be asked to wear a tighter fitting piece of headgear which looks a bit like a hair band. As before you will be asked to press the button to indicate if you hear or think you have heard any tones.
The combination of all of these tests means that issues can be linked to the outer, middle or inner ear which will form the basis of any solutions.
Step 4 - Options
Finally, the audiologist will discuss the options available and assist you in making an informed choice about the best solution for your hearing loss.
We offer hearing aids from leading manufacturers as well as a variety of fitting styles to suit your needs and preferences. Our hearing aids can be trialled free of charge for a limited period to help you make the right decision for you.
We can also offer hearing protection to help maintain your hearing levels if you find yourself regularly in situations where you are exposed to loud noises (e.g. work, machinery, music etc.)
To book your hearing assessment, contact us via the website or give us a call to check availability. We offer some evening and weekend appointments.
Comments