ENT

Hearing screening (audiometry or ADG)

Audiometry is a test to check exactly how well you can hear.

If hearing problems occur, this test helps us to determine the type and degree of hearing loss.

 

Based on the results, your otorhinolaryngologist will recommend the most appropriate treatment so that you can once again enjoy conversation, music and all the little sounds that enrich your everyday life.

How is the investigation carried out?

There are several variations of audiometry, which one is best for you will be determined by a hearing specialist, an audiologist.

Your audiologist will explain the testing process in detail and give you all the necessary instructions before you start. Here is a description of the most common way to test your hearing, which is simple and painless:

 

  1. First, sit comfortably in a quiet, specially prepared room, free from distracting sounds from the surroundings.
  2. Then you put on your headphones or have earplugs inserted in your ears. 
  3. An audiologist using a special audiometer device, plays different tones, higher and lower, soft and loud.
  4. Your job is to make every sound you hear press the button.
  5. The audiologist records your responses to the audiogram, a graph showing how well you hear each tone. If you have hearing loss, an audiogram shows how pronounced it is and at which frequencies it occurs, which is crucial for further diagnosis and treatment. 
  6. The process is then repeated in the other ear. 

Audiometry is fast, safe and helps us find out how we can improve your hearing if necessary.

Don't let your hearing loss drown out the most important moments in your life.

When do I need audiometry?

Different groups of people will need audiometry for different reasons: 

 

  • Older.
    After the age of 50, a certain degree of hearing loss is extremely common, with studies estimating it to be at least 25 %, and after the age of 80, the percentage exceeds 50 %. Regular hearing testing is therefore highly recommended for these age groups.

     

  • Individuals with problems.
    Tinnitus, pain in the ears on one or both sides and a feeling of hearing loss are certainly good reasons for audiometry.

    However, it is important to remember that hearing loss is often gradual and silent, so many people do not notice or become accustomed to the symptoms. It is often family members who report that the individual has difficulty understanding conversations, watches TV at high volume and is very confused by noisy environments.

    Regardless of the degree, hearing loss can affect a person's quality of life, safety and mental and cognitive health.

     

  • Children.
    Young children with suspected hearing impairment or language delay need early audiometry, as even mild hearing loss can affect speech and learning.
  • Individuals with unilateral asymmetric hearing loss.
    Such a loss can be a sign of a serious neurological disease (e.g. a tumour of brain nerve VIII).

     

  • Individuals with mental health problems.
    Hearing loss can make feelings of loneliness, anxiety or depression worse, so audiometry is recommended. 

Preparing for an investigation

In principle, audiometry does not require any special preparation by the patient. However, it is advisable to follow a few general tips to ensure that the test results are as accurate as possible:

It is a good idea to come to the test with clean ear canals.

Earwax can have a significant effect on the audiometric result. However, we warn that cotton buds and rough cleaning can make the condition worse. Your doctor should help you remove the cerumen.

It is advisable to avoid loud noises at least 24 h before audiometrythat is, all those sounds that are louder than a domestic mammal.

Last but not least, it is advisable to come to the check-up healthy.

The nasal cavity is connected to the ear, so mucus build-up during a cold can also affect audiometry results. 

Why us?

Common myths about hearing screening

Hearing tests are only for the elderly.

Wrong. In reality, hearing loss can affect people of all ages due to a variety of factors such as genetics, exposure to loud noises or medical conditions.

Hearing loss is irreversible.

Wrong. Although the vast majority of hearing losses cannot be completely eliminated or cured, there are treatment options. Hearing aids, cochlear implants and other interventions can significantly improve hearing abilities.

Hearing tests are painful or uncomfortable.

Wrong. In reality, audiometric tests are non-invasive and usually painless. The procedure involves listening to sounds and responding to prompts, making the experience simple and comfortable.

Online hearing tests are just as good as in-clinic tests.

Wrong. Online hearing tests may seem convenient, but they cannot diagnose the cause of hearing loss or offer tailored solutions.

Results and next steps

After the audiometry, the results are interpreted and further steps, if any, are planned.

The audiogram will show you how well you can hear different frequencies at different volumes.

He will explain exactly whether you have a hearing impairment, what it is and what it means for your everyday life.

If necessary, he or she will refer you to other specialists for further diagnosis or recommend appropriate solutions, such as different types of hearing aids or even cochlear implants. 

Pricelist

Audiometry (ADG)

50 €

Frequently asked questions

Is audiometry a painful test?

Audiometry is a painless and non-invasive test. Hearing testing is carried out using sounds that are usually quiet or moderately loud.

 

How long does the audiometry take?

The whole process usually takes about 20-40 minutes, depending on the extent of the testing and the needs of the individual.

 

When will the results of the audiometry be available?

Audiometry results are available immediately. The audiogram will show how well you hear different tones, from high to low frequencies, and different sound intensities, from very quiet to loud.

 

How often should audiometric tests be carried out?

How often you need to have an audiometry will depend on your age, noise exposure and any noise problems you may have. In principle, after the age of 50, for individuals without problems, audiometry is recommended every 3-5 years. However, for individuals who are exposed to noise, for example in the workplace, annual hearing testing is recommended. It is important to consult your doctor or audiologist who will advise you on what is best for you.

 

What problems can audiometry help diagnose?

Audiometry can help diagnose different types and degrees of hearing loss, blockages of the ear by cerumen or fluid, hearing damage due to noise exposure, neurosensorineural defects, middle ear problems, the frequency and severity of tinnitus, and balance disorders.

 

How do I book a hearing screening?

You can make an appointment by phone on 040 229 339 or book online:

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