Audiometry Test

Audiometry is a specific type of hearing test that measures a person's ability to hear sounds. It is one of the most common tests performed by audiologists to assess the extent and nature of hearing loss. Here's an overview of what typically happens during an audiometry test:

Purpose:
Hearing Threshold Measurement:

• Determines the softest level of sound a person can hear across different frequencies (pitches).

Procedure:
Pure-Tone Audiometry:

• The individual sits in a soundproof booth or a quiet room.

• Headphones or insert earphones are worn to deliver the sounds.

• A series of pure tones at different frequencies (measured in Hertz, Hz) are presented to each ear separately.

• The person indicates when they hear the sound by pressing a button or raising their hand.

Air Conduction Testing:

• Tests the entire hearing pathway, from the outer ear through the middle ear to the inner ear and beyond.
• The audiologist presents tones at different frequencies to determine the softest sound heard at each frequency.

Bone Conduction Testing:

• Evaluates the inner ear directly by bypassing the outer and middle ear.
• A bone vibrator is placed behind the ear, typically on the mastoid bone, to transmit sound directly to the inner ear.

Speech Audiometry:

• Assesses the ability to hear and understand speech.
• The person listens to recorded or live speech at different volumes and repeats the words.