Hearing Tests for Adults
Reviewed
Also called: audiometry, audiogram, sound test, audiologic tests
Hearing tests measure how well you are able to hear. They can help diagnose hearing loss, how severe it is, and which part of your hearing isn't working properly.
Specimen: not applicable
Why this test may be ordered
- Having trouble hearing over the phone
- Having trouble understanding what other people are saying, especially in a noisy environment
- Needing to turn up the TV volume so loud that others complain
- Thinking that others always seem to mumble
- Having trouble hearing high-pitched sounds and voices
Preparation and collection
You don't need any special preparations for a hearing test.
Your primary care provider may use a general screening test to check your hearing. This is usually a whisper test to see how well you can hear whispered words in each ear.
There is no risk to having a hearing test.
Understanding results
The results of hearing tests show if your hearing is normal or if you have hearing loss. You'll usually get your results right after your tests are done.
- Conductive hearing loss: With conductive hearing loss, your provider may be able to treat the cause and restore your hearing. Limitation: Your treatment will depend on what's blocking sound from reaching your inner ear. Next step: It may include removing wax, draining fluid, or surgery to fix problems with your eardrum or ear bones.
- Sensorineural hearing loss: With sensorineural hearing loss, your hearing loss can't be treated, but you may be able to use hearing aids or have surgery to implant a device to improve your hearing. Limitation: In certain cases, more tests may be needed to diagnose the cause of the hearing loss. Next step: If your hearing can't be improved, assistive devices are available to help with daily living.
- This is a screening result and not a confirmed diagnosis. Further evaluation by a hearing specialist is needed.
- Even mild hearing loss can make it difficult to understand normal speech. Because of this, many older adults will avoid social situations, leading to isolation and depression.
What to do next
If you have questions about your test results, talk with your health care provider.
- What type of hearing loss do I have?
- How severe is my hearing loss?
- What treatment options are available for my hearing loss?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.