A thorough hearing evaluation with Dr. Dena is the first step in determining if you have a hearing loss, and the extent of that loss. The hearing test results will allow her to recommend the best treatment if you do in fact have a hearing loss.

A hearing test is a quick, painless and non-invasive exam performed at our offices using specialized equipment. The test begins with a thorough case history, which provides us with specific health information that can provide insight into hearing loss causes and will help us to determine which tests should be performed.

Following your case history, Dr. Dena will examine your ear canals and eardrums with a special light called an otoscope. The levels of hearing in each ear is measured in a sound-isolated testing booth. During the test, a series of tones of varying pitches, as well as speech signals are applied to each ear through headphones. You are asked to respond to the signals by either pushing a button, raising your hand or in the case of speech signals, repeating what you heard. You will be asked to acknowledge the lowest level you can hear which determines your hearing thresholds. Thresholds for each pitch and each ear are plotted on a graph called an audiogram.

Further tests may be conducted during the hearing test. Your ability to understand words or sentences at different volume levels may be assessed to better determine how clearly you hear and understand speech. Your middle ear function may also be assessed by a test called tympanometry.

Following these tests, Dr. Dena will discuss the results with you and may provide further recommendations, including treatment options, like hearing aids.

If you suspect you have hearing loss, it’s vital to have your hearing tested as soon as possible. The use-it or lose-it principle applies to our hearing; the sooner you treat hearing loss, the more effective the outcome of treatment.

Call us today for a hearing evaluation appointment