Are you having difficulties hearing? We are here to help. Start your journey toward better hearing by taking our quick and easy online hearing screening.
Online Hearing Screening vs. In-Office Hearing Test
An online hearing screening measures how well you can hear different sounds and is used to check for signs of hearing loss in as little as five minutes. If you are showing signs of hearing loss, further testing will help determine the type and degree of hearing loss.
After reviewing your demographic information, the online hearing screening asks you questions about how you perceive your hearing in different environments and conditions.
Next is the hearing check portion of the exam. Headphones are required and we recommend completing the screening in a quiet location. A variety of tones are played through the headphones while you answer queries about each sound. The screening is then repeated in your other ear.
The results of your online hearing screening are separated out by ear and indicate where your hearing ability falls on a spectrum from good to poor. This information can be used by your hearing healthcare provider to order a comprehensive hearing evaluation.
A comprehensive hearingevaluation is completed in the office and consists of a series of individual diagnostic tests that measure different aspects of your hearing. Following a physical examination and a review of your medical history, you will be given any or all of the following tests:
- Pure tone air conduction testing
- Pure tone bone conduction testing
- Speech testing
- Tympanometry
Depending on the findings, your audiologist may perform other tests as well. Once your type, degree and hearing configuration has been determined, a treatment plan can be customized to fit your hearing lifestyle needs.
Do I Need a Hearing Screening?
Individuals of all ages can benefit from a hearing screening, even if they are not showing signs of hearing loss. For those under the age of 50, experts recommend visiting your hearing care provider for a hearing exam every 10 years. If you are over the age of 50, you should have your hearing screened every three years.
The sooner you identify a hearing issue, the quicker you can seek treatment and the better the outcome. Since hearing loss often develops slowly, the early signs are easy to miss. Having a screening schedule in place provides necessary safeguards.
What Do I Do with My Online Hearing Screening Results?
An online hearing screening can indicate if you may have hearing problems through a series of self-reported questions. The results should be used to prompt you to visit an audiology office, where a complete hearing evaluation is performed. These hearing evaluations are used to determine your type of hearing and measure your exact degree of hearing loss.
Your results are then used by your hearing healthcare provider to create an individualized treatment plan.
“I came to be under Dr. Donovan's care during a medical emergency at the hospital. The care I received that day and in every interaction after, at Willamette ENT has been prompt, professional and very thorough. I feel very well cared for.”