4 FAQs About Hearing Tests

Have you noticed an issue with your hearing recently? Perhaps you have found yourself asking people to repeat themselves. Or, maybe you have been constantly turning up the volume on the TV. It’s possible that you haven’t noticed an issue at all but people around you have. If that’s the case, you might be considering booking an appointment with a hearing specialist. When you visit a hearing health professional like this, one of the first things they will do is get you booked in for a hearing test. Here are some frequently asked questions about these tests answered.

1. Is a hearing test painful?

Hearing tests aren’t painful at all. It does involve inserting a small mic into your ear; however, it’s so tiny you won’t even feel it. You might experience a slight level of discomfort but only due to the fact that your ear isn’t used to have something inside it. Once the mic has been inserted noises will be played at different volumes. The hearing care provider will use this to record the level of your hearing. They can also compare this to past readings if you have had a hearing test before to find out whether your hearing has grown worse over time.

2. How long will it take?

Hearing tests can last up to an hour. However, it is important to be aware that you won’t be getting your hearing tested for the entire duration. A hearing test will always start with a questionnaire. You will be asked to note down the type of issues that you have had with your hearing. By doing this a hearing health professional will be able to understand your perspective on the situation. This will help them determine whether a full hearing test is necessary.

The test itself will last 10-20 minutes, depending on the pace of your hearing specialist. After that, they will spend another 20 minutes or so discussing the results. Results will be provided immediately and they will be able to tell you if there is a problem that needs to be addressed.

3. When will I need a hearing test?

Typically, you will need a hearing test if there are any notable issues with your hearing. You may also get a hearing test if you have already been diagnosed with a certain level of hearing loss. A hearing test should further be booked if you have experienced signs of tinnitus. Tinnitus symptoms include hearing noises that aren’t actually there. These noises could be anything from a whistling to a short piece of music.

4. What happens after the hearing test?

After hearing tests are completed, if there is an issue, your hearing health professional will recommend a course of action. This will typically be hearing aids if they note that you are suffering from hearing loss. They will advise you on the type of hearing aids available for your condition and make sure that you are aware of all the options.