Hearing Tests: Are They Required Before Buying Hearing Aids?

A hearing test allows an audiologist, or hearing aid doctor, to understand the background of your hearing loss, any medical issues affecting your hearing, and your ability to hear.

Why Are Hearing Tests Necessary?

Rather than buying a hearing aid without a hearing test, it is better to undergo a hearing evaluation to determine which hearing aid can help you overcome your hearing loss. The type of hearing loss is taken into consideration by the audiologist before recommending a hearing aid.

For example, if a person has tinnitus, they may experience a constant noise or ringing in the ears. In such cases, the appropriate hearing aid can help decrease the perception of those sounds. Conversely, an age or noise-related hearing loss may require a much different type of hearing aid. In any case, a hearing test is required to determine which device best suits you.

How Are Hearing Evaluations Performed?

A hearing evaluation includes several tests to assess the function of your auditory system:

This test reveals how you recognize and understand speech. During this test, your audiologist or doctor will whisper a series of words to you from various distances and ask you to repeat them.

This test is used to determine how well you hear and respond to the vibration or sound that is picked up by the bone behind the ear.

This test is performed to distinguish between sensorineural and conductive hearing loss.

• Traditional Pure Tone Test

  In this test, you will place earphones on and listen to a series of tones in different volumes and frequencies.

• Speech Recognition Test

  This test reveals how you recognize and understand speech. During this test, your audiologist or doctor will whisper a series of words to you from various distances and ask you to repeat them.

• Bone Conduction Test

  This test is used to determine how well you hear and respond to the vibration or sound that is picked up by the bone behind the ear.

• Auditory Brainstem Test

  This test is performed to distinguish between sensorineural and conductive hearing loss.

When Should You Have a Hearing Test?

Even if you do not have any hearing problems or hearing loss, it is best to get your hearing checked:

• At least once after you turn 21
• Every 10 years until you turn 50
• Every three years after you turn 50

Where Do I Go to Get My Hearing Checked?

Visit your neighborhood hearing experts to get your hearing tested. They will provide accurate results and recommend the right hearing aids for you. They will help you find the best solution according to your needs and budget.

What Should You Do Before Buying Hearing Aids?

Before buying hearing aids, you should:

• Visit a trusted audiologist near you and get your hearing test done.
• Ask about a trial period for the hearing aid and the refundable amount if you return the device during the trial period.
• Be aware that hearing aids cannot eliminate background noise.
• Know that the cost of hearing aids varies depending on the features, durability, and size.
• Seek your audiologist’s help to choose the right device that can fit your budget and requirements.

You should undergo a hearing test to determine the degree and type of hearing loss you have and the device that can overcome your problem. Visit the best audiologist near you if you want accurate results on hearing tests and the right hearing aids for you.