What to Expect at a Hearing Test

It can be intimidating to walk into a hearing test, particularly if your hearing health has been challenged recently. Testing anxiety happens to the best of us! But, all you have to do is schedule the appointment and keep it. Our team is ready to handle the intricacies of the testing process and help you fully understand your results.

We will greet you when you first arrive and offer you coffee while you fill out your paperwork. We keep our office friendly and comfortable so you can relax and be at ease during your visit.

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Bring a loved one for support

We welcome the addition of a friend or family member to accompany you to your hearing consultation. Having a loved one can make you feel more comfortable during your exam, help you fill in the gaps in your hearing experience, and even serve as a sounding board for any decision-making you might do after your consultation.
Man receiving hearing test results from Audiologist

Medical Health History Review

A medical health history review is an essential component of an accurate hearing test. During this preliminary stage, we will assess your overall health and inquire about lifestyle factors, family history of hearing impairment, or any other medical conditions and medications that might be contributing to your hearing or balance issues.

We may also remove or suggest specific tests if we feel it's necessary. Therefore, it's critical to provide accurate information because it helps us make well-informed decisions regarding any possible treatments or therapies you may receive at the end of the hearing test. Being as honest and open as you can with your audiologist during a hearing test will help ensure you get the most accurate diagnosis and treatment possible.

Audiologist examining patient ear

Otoscopy

Most hearing tests typically include an otoscopy, which is a visual examination of the ear canal. During this stage of the exam, an instrument called an otoscope - which is an illuminated magnification tool - is used to check for physical abnormalities such as a buildup of wax or infection. Otoscopy also allows a hearing specialist to inspect the shape and color of the eardrum, additionally searching for any signs of damage or perforation in order to determine whether it is a source of hearing difficulties or other hearing or ear complications. Otoscopies are an important part of diagnosing any ear-related complaints and can help us isolate or exclude various factors influencing hearing loss.
Senior woman having hearing aid fitted by audiologist

Hearing Exams to Expect

If you are unsure or simply curious about the state of your hearing health, hearing tests can provide peace of mind and relief. At a hearing test, you will be evaluated by a professional hearing specialist and asked to perform various listening tasks. The tests are designed to measure your hearing ability and identify any potential hearing loss.

Typically, comprehensive hearing tests consist of five different examinations. However, as each individual's hearing needs are different, you may or may not be subject to each one. Throughout the various tests, you may be asked to respond to tones and words of different volumes and frequencies. The tests are usually comfortable and non-invasive, and a qualified hearing professional will explain the process in detail.

After the test, you will be given the outcomes and a briefing on any hearing loss or other auditory issues, as well as potential treatments. If you have never completed a hearing evaluation before, it is beneficial to understand the test and its different stages beforehand. This will allow you to be more knowledgeable and confident throughout, which facilitates a smoother process and can ultimately lead to more accurate results.