What to Ask Your Hearing Provider About Hearing Tests

Hearing tests are an essential part of life as they determine whether or not a person has a hearing impairment or not. However, with so many different hearing tests available, knowing which one is right for you and your individual needs can be challenging. There are seven different types of hearing tests. This article will provide you with a list of vital questions to be asked during your appointment about hearing tests and the outcomes. This article will also provide information about two of the seven tests generally conducted as a first priority in addressing hearing loss.

Essential Questions to Ask Your Hearing Provider

Many questions are considered essential to ask questions during your appointment with your hearing care provider. These questions can include but are not limited to the following:

• Which tests will be performed? 
• Are these tests painful in any way? 
• Will these hearing tests be an accurate indication of your hearing loss or impairment?
• What can you do should your test results show that you have a hearing impairment?
• Are there any ways to minimize the progression of your hearing loss?
• Are hearing devices necessary?
• Which device will best assist you?

Diagnostic Hearing Evaluation

A diagnostic hearing evaluation tests your ability to hear sounds by measuring how well you can detect differences in sound intensities. The purpose of the testing is to identify any underlying causes for hearing loss or impairment. This type of assessment typically includes:

• Pure tone audiometry: Where tones are played through headphones, and you press a button on each ear if you can hear them.
• Speech recognition: Where words are read aloud over speakers and numbers flashed onto screens so that you answer with which number it was when two different numbers were shown together on the screen.

These tests help determine whether there is an issue with the peripheral auditory system, central auditory system or processing of what is heard by the brain. For example, suppose the results show an issue with your peripheral auditory system or difficulty understanding speech coming from all directions. In that case, you will likely need to wear hearing aids and get cochlear implants.

After your hearing assessment with a qualified hearing healthcare provider, take time to research and discuss the possible treatment options with your family to ensure that the best possible decision is made regarding your hearing health. If you have any further questions regarding the outcome of your hearing tests or possible future procedures, contact your hearing health professional directly.

Hearing Solutions of Louisiana is here to help you through every stage of purchasing a hearing aid. To schedule a hearing aid fitting, call our office at (337) 607-0630!