There are many reasons for hearing loss, including continual exposure to loud noises at work, ear infections, loud concert music, and head injuries. Since this issue often happens gradually, many people do not realize they’ll benefit from hearing testing. If you suspect hearing loss, review telltale signs to be aware of and what the testing process entails here. 

How the Test Works

Hearing testing is a painless, non-invasive service that typically takes 30 minutes. The test usually starts with pure-tone audiometry, or where you wear headphones and listen for assorted tones in a soundproof booth or room. The tones are short, limited to one ear at a time, and feature different pitches and volumes to assess hearing loss. For example, perhaps you can hear high-pitched sounds, but cannot always detect low tones. 

Testing can also include speech audiometry, which involves listening to live or recorded speech in a soundproof booth or room. As with the tones, phrases and sentences feature different volumes to determine the degree of hearing loss. 

Decibels are used to measure sound intensity, with whispering and normal speech 30 and 60 decibels, respectively. Mild hearing loss is in the 26- to 40-decibel range, while severe hearing loss is in the 91- to 100-decibel range. 

Common Signs of Hearing Loss 

Various signs and symptoms indicate hearing loss, such as always turning the television or radio up, straining to hear friends and family members while in public or in crowded rooms, and saying no to noisy social gatherings because you feel self-conscious or frustrated. 

Other signs include feeling like others speak in muffled tones, constantly asking people to speak up, and problems understanding various words, particularly when there is background noise. If any of these signs apply to you, schedule hearing testing to determine the extent of hearing loss. Customized hearing aids allow you to regain your hearing and enjoy life without the related strain.

For quality hearing testing, make an appointment at Heartland Better Hearing. Since 2003, this audiology center has served residents throughout Elizabethtown, KY, and the surrounding counties, providing a wide variety of aids in addition to testing services. Call (270) 735-9352 today to schedule your appointment or visit the website for product and service information