Hearing Tests: Are They Required Before Buying Hearing Aids?

A hearing test helps an audiologist to have a better understanding of the cause of your hearing loss, any medical conditions that may be influencing your hearing and your overall hearing abilities.

Why is it Important to Have a Hearing Test Before Buying a Hearing Aid?

Rather than purchasing a hearing aid without first having your hearing tested, it is best to get your hearing examined in order to identify which hearing aid will best assist you in improving your hearing. Before recommending a hearing aid, an audiologist considers the type of hearing loss that has been diagnosed.

For instance, if someone experiences tinnitus, they may notice a continual ringing or buzzing in their ears all the time. In such circumstances, the use of an appropriate hearing aid can help in reducing the perception of certain noises in the environment. In contrast, hearing loss caused by old age or loud exposure may need the use of a whole other type of hearing aid. In any case, a hearing test is essential to identify which device is most appropriate for your needs.

What is the Procedure for Performing Hearing Evaluations?

A hearing evaluation consists of a number of tests designed to measure the overall function of your auditory system. This exam will demonstrate your ability to recognize and comprehend spoken language. This test will involve your audiologist whispering a series of words to you from varying distances and asking you to repeat what they have heard.

With this test, you can learn how effectively you can hear and respond to the vibration or sound that is picked up by the bone behind your ear. This test is used to distinguish between sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss in the ears.

Traditional Pure Tone Assessment

In this test, you will place earphones on and listen to a series of tones in different volumes and frequencies.

Test for Speech Recognition

This exam will demonstrate your ability to recognize and comprehend spoken language. This test will involve your audiologist whispering a series of words to you from varying distances and asking you to repeat what they have heard.

Bone Conduction Assessment

With this test, you can learn how effectively you can hear and respond to the vibration or sound that is picked up by the bone behind your ear.

Auditory Brainstem Examination

This test is used to distinguish between sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss in the ears.

If You Have a Hearing Impairment, When Should You Get It Checked?

You should have your hearing checked even if you do not have any hearing difficulties or hearing loss. Here's why:

• At the very least, once you reach the age of 21.
• Every ten years until you reach the age of fifty
• Every three years after you reach the age of fifty

Do I Need to See an Audiologist to Have My Hearing Checked?

To have your hearing tested, make an appointment with your audiologist. They will give you reliable results and make recommendations for the best hearing aids for your needs. They will assist you in determining the most appropriate solution for your needs and budget.

Do You Know What You Should Do Before You Buy Hearing Aids?

Before purchasing hearing aids, you should consider the following:

• Make an appointment with a reputable audiologist in your area to have your hearing tested.
• Inquire about a trial time for the hearing aid, as well as the sum that will be refunded if the device is returned during the trial period. 
• Keep in mind that hearing aids do not have the ability to eliminate background noise.
• Recognize that the price of hearing aids vary depending on the features, durability and size of the device you choose.
• Seek the assistance of your audiologist to select the most appropriate equipment for your needs and budget.
• You should have a hearing test performed to establish the extent and kind of hearing loss you have, as well as the sort of device that will best solve your problem.

If you want reliable findings on hearing tests as well as the best hearing aids for you, make an appointment to speak to an audiologist at Peninsula Hearing at Poulsbo: 360-697-3061 or Port Townsend: 360-379-5458