Factors That Can Affect Hearing Test Results

It’s important to ensure that all aspects of our well-being are in good shape. After all, life is better when we know that our bodies are working exactly as they should. And if there is any issue, then knowing about it can put you on the path towards addressing the issue. 

With this in mind, it’s important for all adults to schedule regular hearing test appointments. In doing so, they’ll have a good idea of their current level of hearing and, if required, can go through the process of getting a hearing aid fitted. There are many things that can influence hearing test results, so it’s important to work with an experienced audiologist. In this blog, we’ll run through some of the influential factors. 

Establishing the Baseline

Your first hearing test is important because it can help to establish your hearing baseline. This helps to give an overview of your current level of hearing by which all future test results will be measured. You will have a current level of hearing and even if that’s within the normal range, it could be that your future tests show a decline in your hearing. Even if it doesn’t reach the level by which you need to be fitted for a hearing aid, it’ll show that your hearing may need to be managed to prevent further hearing loss. 

Temporary Sound Disturbance 

Your hearing test results may show that you have diminished hearing. However, this doesn’t necessarily always mean that you have hearing loss. When we say hearing loss, we mean permanent hearing loss that needs addressing. There are many reasons why someone’s hearing may be impacted on a temporary basis.

For example, they have been exposed to a loud noise, they may have a build of earwax in their canal or they may have an ear infection. The hearing loss will likely disappear once the root cause has been removed. It’s important to get a hearing test to figure out what is causing your hearing loss. 

The Thoroughness of the Test

As with anything, the quality of the audiologist that is conducting your hearing test can influence the results of the test. If the audiologist only provides a basic hearing assessment, then you may receive results that do not offer a true reflection of your level of hearing. A good audiologist will conduct a thorough test that involves various stages and which test your ability to hear a wide range of sounds. That’s why results can vary from one provider to the next – it’s not that your hearing has necessarily changed, just that one provider performed a quick test and the other provided a thorough test. 

Treatment Options 

As we mentioned above, your hearing test should be thorough. At the end of it, you should have an accurate assessment of your current level of hearing. If it’s found that you are experiencing hearing loss, then the first thing to do is not to panic. There are many treatment options available to you. While there’s no cure for hearing loss, there are a series of hearing instruments that can help to improve your level of hearing. These come in a variety of sizes and styles, including:

• In the Ear (ITE): ITE hearing aids sit inside the outer bowl of your ear.
• Behind the Ear (BTE): BTE hearing aids sit behind your ear.
• In the Canal (ITC): These small hearing aids sit inside the canal of your ear. 

Working With an Experienced Audiologist

The most important aspect that will influence your hearing test will be the provider who performs the test. If they are experienced and know what they’re doing, then you can have confidence that the results of your test will be accurate and thorough. 

If you’re looking for a hearing test then be sure to get in touch with our team here at GL Wyeno Hearing Specialists PC. Our dedicated team of audiologists are ready to make your hearing test appointment as comfortable and efficient as possible. We’ll perform a thorough test to determine your level of hearing, and if we find that you would benefit from a hearing aid, then we will be happy to guide you through your options.

With experience in providing hearing healthcare, you can have confidence that you’re in the right hands when you work with GL Wyeno Hearing Specialist PC. To make an appointment, simply give us a call at (402) 463-2431. We look forward to hear from you.