Hearing Tests
Hearing tests are a type of medical examination used to assess an individual’s ability to hear. There are many types of hearing tests. They involve placing a specialised device in the ear to measure the volume and clarity of sound that is being heard by the patient. The results of hearing tests are used to diagnose hearing loss and determine the best course of treatment. Infants should have a hearing screening as soon as possible so that they can receive help as early as possible if needed in order to learn during the golden opportunity time.
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE)
This test measures the movement of sound waves in the cochlea. A small earbud is placed in the child’s ear. Sounds are played through the earbud and echo responses coming from the cochlea are measured. This test takes just a few minutes, however it is not always possible to get clear responses from the first test. If the baby has significant hearing loss, no echo or a reduced echo is measured.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
This test measures how the baby’s hearing nerve responds to sounds. Sticker electrodes are placed on the baby’s head and small earphones are placed in the baby’s ears, then sounds are played through the earphones. The electrodes measure whether there is a response from the baby's auditory brainstem. If the baby has significant hearing loss, no response will be detected.
Pure-tone Audiometry
This test is used to measure hearing sensitivity. The audiogram determines the type and degree of the hearing loss. Pure tones are played at different frequencies to the ear through an earphone. Children are requested to do a task when they hear the sound. This test is the best way to test a child's hearing through playing.
