Audiometry, commonly known as hearing tests, is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate an individual’s hearing ability. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our ENT specialists perform audiometry to assess hearing loss and determine the appropriate treatment or management strategies for patients of all ages.

Procedure:

During an audiometry test, the patient is seated in a soundproof room or booth wearing headphones. Pure-tone sounds of varying frequencies and volumes are played through the headphones, and the patient is asked to indicate when they hear each sound by pressing a button or raising their hand.

Types of Audiometry:

• Pure-Tone Audiometry: This test measures the softest sounds a person can hear at different frequencies, typically ranging from low to high pitches.
• Speech Audiometry: This test evaluates the patient’s ability to hear and understand speech at different volumes and in various background noise conditions.
• Bone Conduction Audiometry: In this test, a bone oscillator is placed behind the ear to bypass the outer and middle ear and directly stimulate the inner ear to assess sensorineural hearing loss.

Results Interpretation:

The audiologist analyzes the patient’s responses to determine their hearing threshold levels at different frequencies. The results are plotted on an audiogram, a graph that displays the degree and type of hearing loss in each ear.

Treatment and Management:

Based on the audiometry results, appropriate treatment or management strategies are recommended. These may include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, cochlear implants, auditory rehabilitation, or medical or surgical interventions, depending on the severity and type of hearing loss.

Benefits of Audiometry:

• Early Detection: Audiometry helps identify hearing loss early, allowing for timely intervention and appropriate management to prevent further deterioration.
• Individualized Care: The results of audiometry enable healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient, optimizing outcomes and improving quality of life.
• Monitoring Progress: Regular audiometry tests allow for ongoing monitoring of hearing function, ensuring that adjustments to treatment or management are made as needed to maintain optimal hearing health.

 

What is audiometry, and why is it performed?

Audiometry, or hearing tests, is a diagnostic procedure used to assess an individual’s hearing ability. It is performed to evaluate hearing loss, determine its type and severity, and guide appropriate treatment or management strategies.

 

How is audiometry performed?

During an audiometry test, the patient wears headphones and listens to sounds of varying frequencies and volumes. They indicate when they hear each sound, and the audiologist analyzes their responses to assess hearing thresholds.

 

What types of audiometry tests are there?

Common types include pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and bone conduction audiometry, each serving different purposes in evaluating hearing function.

 

What do audiometry results indicate?

Audiometry results are plotted on an audiogram and provide information about the degree and type of hearing loss in each ear, guiding treatment decisions and management strategies.

 

What are the treatment options for hearing loss identified through audiometry?

Treatment options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, auditory rehabilitation, or medical or surgical interventions, depending on the severity and type of hearing loss.

 

How often should audiometry be performed?

The frequency of audiometry testing depends on individual factors such as age, medical history, and risk factors for hearing loss. It is typically recommended as part of routine healthcare screenings and for monitoring hearing health over time.

 

Is audiometry safe?

Yes, audiometry is a safe and non-invasive procedure that is well-tolerated by patients of all ages. It plays a crucial role in early detection and management of hearing loss, contributing to overall health and well-being.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our ENT specialists utilize audiometry as a valuable tool in diagnosing and managing hearing loss. With expertise in conducting comprehensive assessments and developing individualized treatment plans, we are dedicated to preserving and optimizing our patients’ hearing health for a better quality of life.