Health

Four Steps to Expect when Submitting Yourself to an Audiology Evaluation 

An audiology evaluation determines whether or not you have a hearing loss, the degree of hearing loss, the affected ear or ears, and frequencies most affected, the kind hearing loss you may have. During your visit to an audiologist, you will get professional, prompt service. Below are the steps involved in the evaluation so you will know what expect:

The Audiologist Assesses your Lifestyle

Your audiologist should better understand your lifestyle and hearing priorities to offer individualized care during your first visit. Do you enjoy loud music, lectures, TV shows, and movies? Do you have a full-time job? Do you frequently visit public places? These factors can help determine the right kind of hearing aids for you. 

They Will Collect your Hearing and Medical History

Hearing loss can result from medical conditions, injuries, certain medications, or physical blockages. Your audiologist will ask you about your personal hearing health, environmental factors, and medical history that may have contributed to your hearing loss. They will ask you if another member of your family has hearing loss, whether you have one or two affected ears, if you can hear ringing sounds in your ear, whether you have vertigo or dizziness, and more. 

Give a Hearing Evaluation

This painless procedure includes different tests to measure how well you hear various sounds like speech and tones. Your Audiology Centre West hearing test includes a visual exam of your ear using an otoscope which lets the professional see if earwax, debris, or fluid is blocking your ear canal, and whether you have a damaged ear part. Also, a thorough hearing evaluation includes air and bone conduction testing as well as word discrimination testing. Your hearing care professional will show you the results of the evaluation on an audiogram.

Review the Test Results

Your audiologist will review the results of your exam and diagnostic test to know whether you have hearing loss or not, the kind of hearing loss, and your options for moving forward. If your hearing care professional finds out you have hearing loss and hearing aids are commended, they will show you the styles of hearing aids that may be suitable for you. If they decide technology is best for you, they will determine the style and level of technology that best supports your hearing goals. For instance, you might require technology that filters out plenty of background noise. For some people, completely-in-the-canal technology is not suitable because their ear canals will not accommodate it. 

Elaine Allen
the authorElaine Allen