“What is the hearing test for tinnitus like?”
My doctor is referring me to get a hearing test for tinnitus. I was experiencing ringing in my ears for a week and half, and I have my test schedule for Friday. What is the hearing test like for tinnitus? And if I do have it, how will it be treated?
2 Answers
There are a few different tests for tinnitus, all of them harmless and easy on the patient. Some of them are subjective – speech recognition test and pure tone audiogram – asking the patient for feedback on hearing. Some of them are objective – tympanogram, acoustic reflex testing, and otoacoustic emission testing – where the doctor is measuring and analyzing the actual structures of the ear.
Hi! A full/formal hearing test is called an "audiogram". You will meet with an Audiologist who will guide you through the test. It generally involves listing for various tones through a headset in a sound-proof booth, as well as repeating back various words to grade your perception of normal speech. Other tests may also be performed at the time, to include the small probe (like an earplug) that fits in your ear canal to test the motion and function of the eardrum. An adult hearing test on average can take about 30 minutes.
Treatment depends on whether your tinnitus is associated with hearing loss. You may be referred to an ear, nose and throat physician, if needed, to discuss treatment options.
Treatment depends on whether your tinnitus is associated with hearing loss. You may be referred to an ear, nose and throat physician, if needed, to discuss treatment options.
