Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
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Our ability to hear is one of our most important senses, connecting us to the world around us. Yet, as time passes, our hearing may undergo changes that impact our overall well-being. The first step in improving our hearing health is a comprehensive hearing test.
Understanding the Basics: What Are Comprehensive Hearing Tests?
Comprehensive hearing tests, also known as audiometric evaluations, are thorough assessments conducted by hearing healthcare professionals to measure the full scope of an individual’s hearing abilities. These tests go beyond a simple screening and provide a detailed map of an individual’s hearing health.
The Importance of Comprehensive Hearing Tests
One of the primary benefits of comprehensive hearing tests is the early detection of potential hearing issues. By identifying changes in hearing sensitivity, professionals can intervene early, preventing further deterioration and improving the chances of successful treatment.
Comprehensive tests also enable hearing healthcare professionals to create personalized treatment plans. Whether the solution involves hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or other interventions, the individualized approach ensures that the chosen solution is right for you.
Monitoring Changes Over Time
Hearing health is dynamic and can change over time due to various factors. Comprehensive tests provide a baseline for an individual’s hearing, allowing for regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan as needed. This ongoing evaluation ensures that the chosen interventions remain effective as hearing needs evolve.
Components of Comprehensive Hearing Tests
Pure-Tone Test
Pure-tone audiometry is a fundamental component of comprehensive hearing tests. It involves listening to a series of tones at different frequencies and volumes. The results help determine the softest sounds you can hear across the full range of frequencies.
Speech Test
Speech audiometry assesses your ability to hear and understand spoken words. This test often involves listening to words at different volumes and repeating them back. It provides valuable insights into how well you can comprehend speech in various listening conditions.
Middle Ear Function Tests
These tests evaluate the functioning of the middle ear, including the eardrum and the three tiny bones (ossicles). Tympanometry, for example, measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure, providing information about middle ear function.
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing
OAE testing assesses the health of the inner ear’s hair cells by measuring the sounds they emit in response to stimuli. This test is often used to identify issues in the cochlea, providing insights into the overall health of the auditory system.
What to Expect During a Hearing Test
If you’re heading to your first hearing test, here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation and Case History: The process begins with a thorough consultation where the hearing healthcare professional gathers information about your medical history, lifestyle, and specific hearing concerns. This helps tailor the testing process to address your unique needs.
- Pure-Tone and Speech Audiometry: You’ll listen to a series of tones and speech stimuli, responding to indicate the softest sounds you can hear. This phase provides crucial information about the degree and nature of any hearing loss.
- Discussion of Results and Treatment Options: Following the tests, we’ll discuss the results. We will explain the findings, discuss any identified issues, and recommend appropriate treatment options. This may include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or other interventions based on your needs.
- Follow-Up and Ongoing Care: Comprehensive hearing tests are not a one-time event but part of an ongoing process. Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor any changes in hearing health, adjust treatment plans as needed, and address any new concerns that may arise.
Taking Charge of Your Hearing Health
Ready for your next hearing test? Comprehensive hearing tests empower you to take charge of your auditory health. It provides a roadmap for maintaining healthy hearing, addressing emerging issues, and enjoying the sounds that enrich our lives.
Call us today to book your next hearing test and find out more about your hearing health. We’ll review your hearing loss, along with any sounds you might be missing. We will also recommend treatment options based on your hearing tests. For example, we may recommend monitoring your hearing with annual hearing tests or may suggest getting hearing aids to help you hear all the sounds around you. Together we will create a perfect treatment just for you.