If you have been referred for a diagnostic audiologic evaluation, it means that your hearing needs to be further examined. A diagnostic audiologic evaluation may be indicated for individuals who did not pass an initial hearing screening.
The evaluation is done to determine if a hearing loss is present and, if so, to detail the type and severity of the hearing loss. It also may provide insight into the cause of the hearing loss as well as provide guidance for the audiologist in making appropriate treatment recommendations or referrals to other professionals.
What tests will be done?
The specific tests done during the evaluation will depend on the patient’s age, symptoms and medical history. These various tests will determine the degree of hearing loss, the type of hearing loss and the conditions of the ear canal and middle ear. The audiologist will also establish if the hearing loss is conductive (middle or outer ear problems) or sensorineural (inner ear problems).
A diagnostic audiologic evaluation includes a visual inspection of the ear canal and ear drum, pure-tone testing, bone conduction testing, speech testing, and tympanometry, which helps to determine the function of the middle ear.
Visual inspection
Using a device called an otoscope, the audiologist will look into your ear canal to make sure that there is nothing blocking your ear canal that could be affecting your hearing and the outcome of the hearing test. If something is blocking your ear canal, such as wax or other debris, the audiologist may be able to remove it.
They will also visually inspect your ear drum to make sure there are no other signs of problems that could be affecting your hearing.
Pure-tone air and bone conduction testing
Pure-tone testing determines the quietest tones that a person can hear at different frequencies, both low and high. Bone conduction testing is similar to pure-tone. However, a different type of headset is used to provide the audiologist with different information. A bone conduction test will help the audiologist determine whether the loss is conductive in nature or sensorineural.
Speech testing
A speech reception threshold (SRT) test is used to confirm the results of a pure-tone test. This test determines the lowest level of sound at which the patient can clearly identify words or speech.
What can I expect during a diagnostic hearing evaluation?
There are two parts to a diagnostic evaluation: the testing and the review. The testing portion will last about 30-40 minutes, followed by 20-30 minutes to review the results with the audiologist. They can interpret the tests for you, answer your questions, provide you with information and referrals as needed, as well as begin planning for treatment, if indicated.
It is recommended that you bring a family member with you to the evaluation appointment. Most audiologists agree that hearing loss is a family issue. It helps to have another supportive person at the appointment to help you understand the information and recommendations.
During your appointment, a complete medical history will be completed and the audiologist will want to hear about any complaints you have about your hearing. They will pay special attention to any concerns you have about exposure to noise, tinnitus and balance problems.
The diagnostic audiologic evaluation is a good chance to establish a relationship with your audiologist. Above all, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You will want to be clear on any information you receive so that you can be an active participant in finding hearing solutions that work best for you and your lifestyle.
Audiologists are specialists in hearing and hearing rehabilitation. Never hesitate to ask your audiologist for clarification or further information on anything you do not understand.