Hearing Tests to Diagnose Sudden Hearing Loss
If you find yourself suddenly experiencing hearing loss or deafness, it is important to call a hearing specialist immediately. Sudden unexplained hearing loss is considered a medical emergency and should be treated as soon as possible. When getting diagnosed, these are the tests that may be conducted to help determine the cause and appropriate treatment for your sudden hearing loss.
Tests to Diagnose and Monitor Hearing Loss
- Physical Exam – The specialist will take a look inside your ear to see if there are any obvious causes of hearing loss, such as built-up earwax or inflammation from infections or illness. They can also identify any structural issues that may be causing your hearing loss.
- Tuning Fork Test – A tuning fork is a metal instrument with two prongs that produces a distinct sound when hit. This can help the specialist detect any hearing loss and can help show where in the ear any damage has occurred.
- Audiometer Tests – This is a more thorough test that involves wearing earphones and having sounds played in one ear at a time. The sounds and tones are played at different levels to identify the quietest sound you are able to hear.
- Audiogram – An audiogram is a graph that displays your ability to hear different pitches. This can be referenced again in the future to analyze hearing changes. It also helps by:
- Identifying and tracking any reductions in hearing ability
- Determining which type of hearing loss is occurring from conductive, sensorineural, or mixed hearing problems
- Monitoring how effective treatment is for maintaining your hearing
- Track any changes in your hearing to identify if it is progressing
Consult the Specialists at Bravo Hearing for Help with Your Hearing Loss
If you experience any sudden or unexplained hearing loss, it is critical that you call a specialist as soon as possible. This can help you restore your hearing or prevent any further degeneration. Our team will be able to help you identify the cause of your hearing loss and work with you to recommend the best course of treatment. To make an appointment for a hearing test, call us at 647-694-4626 today.