Did you know that nearly three in every five Canadian adults has hearing loss?

You are not alone if you are experiencing difficulty understanding conversations or turning up the volume on your TV or radio. Even though hearing loss is a common problem, solutions are available. 

One of the most important steps to improve your hearing is to schedule a diagnostic hearing evaluation.

By understanding each step, you can approach your hearing test with confidence, knowing you’re taking proactive steps toward better hearing and overall well-being. Keep reading if you want to find out more. 

Visiting an Audiology Clinic

The first step in addressing your hearing concerns is scheduling an appointment with an audiology clinic. Audiologists are highly trained professionals specialized in diagnosing and treating hearing related issues. They will provide guidance on the best course of action for treatment.

What is a Diagnostic Hearing Evaluation

A diagnostic hearing evaluation is a comprehensive hearing test that evaluates your hearing abilities and is conducted  by a qualified audiologist. This assessment aims to determine the extent and nature of an individual’s hearing loss and helps the audiologist identify any underlying issues.

The results from these tests are crucial in developing a personalized treatment plan. This may involve hearing solutions like hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices.

Keep in mind that there are various kinds of hearing loss that people suffer from. 

What is Included in a Diagnostic Hearing Evaluation

Several types of hearing tests may be conducted during a diagnostic hearing evaluation. These tests will help your audiologist provide the proper hearing solutions. Are you considering a comprehensive hearing test but unsure of what to expect? We’re here to guide you through the step-by-step process:

1. Case History: Getting to Know You

The first step in a comprehensive hearing test is a detailed case history. The audiologist will ask you questions about your medical history, symptoms, and factors that might affect your hearing, such as exposure to loud noise. This information will help provide the audiologist with insight into potential causes of your hearing loss.and tailor the testing process accordingly.

2. Otoscopy: A Visual Examination

Next, the audiologist will perform an otoscopy, a visual examination of your outer ear and ear canal using a handheld device called an otoscope. This simple and painless procedure allows the audiologist to check for any visible issues like earwax buildup, infections, or abnormalities that could impact your hearing.

3. Pure-Tone Audiometry: Hearing Threshold Testing

Now comes the pure-tone audiometry. Wearing headphones, you’ll listen to tones of different frequencies and volumes. You’ll indicate when you hear each tone, enabling the audiologist to determine your hearing threshold at various frequencies. This test provides crucial information about the softest sounds you can detect across different pitches.

4. Tympanometry: Understanding Middle Ear Function

Tympanometry measures the movement of your eardrum and the function of the middle ear. A gentle probe is placed in your ear, and changes in air pressure are applied. This test helps the audiologist evaluate the health and mobility of the eardrum and middle ear structures.

5. Speech Audiometry: Assessing Speech Understanding

Speech audiometry evaluates your ability to understand speech. You may be asked to repeat words or sentences presented at varying volumes and in different listening conditions. This includes testing for speech recognition thresholds (SRT), which determines the lowest volume at which you can understand speech accurately.

6. Speech in Noise Testing: Real-World Listening Situations

In addition to SRT, the audiologist may conduct speech in noise testing. This involves listening to speech with background noise, mimicking real-world listening situations. It helps assess your ability to understand speech in challenging acoustic environments, such as crowded restaurants or busy social gatherings.

7. Tinnitus Testing: Evaluating Tinnitus Symptoms

If you’re experiencing tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds in your ears), the audiologist may conduct specific tests to evaluate your tinnitus symptoms. These tests help assess the characteristics and impact of your tinnitus, providing valuable information for treatment and management options.

8. Results and Recommendations: Personalized Care

After completing the tests, the audiologist will discuss the results with you. They will explain any hearing loss, tinnitus, or other issues identified and provide recommendations for further referrals, treatment options, or the use of hearing aids if necessary. The audiologist’s expertise will guide you in making informed decisions about your hearing health.

Diagnostic Hearing Evaluation Preparation

Before your appointment, avoid loud noises to prevent temporary hearing loss.

Come prepared with a list of any medications you’re taking and questions about your hearing so you can discuss them with the audiologist during your visit.

Schedule a Diagnostic Hearing Evaluation

If you experience any symptoms of hearing loss, a diagnostic hearing evaluation will offer insights into your hearing health.

Are you ready to schedule a diagnostic hearing evaluation in Edmonton? If so, the audiologists at Wild Rose Audiology Clinic have the expertise to help you.

Wild Rose Audiology Clinic has been a trusted provider of audiology services since 1994. We have a team of audiologists with extensive experience and training. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to get started today!