An audiometer comes in handy when evaluating hearing problems. This devices allows the doctors to figure out how deep the problem is and what kind of treatment is suitable. This equipment is found in audiology centers as well as clinics that deal with problems related to ears, noses and throats. The components that make up this machine include headphones, a hardware unit as well as a feedback button for the patient. The whole system can sometimes be controlled through a PC. The machine is constructed according to international standards. Hearing tests are also governed by standards.
There are various types of audiometers. Some are PC based and they can be operated by just about anyone. They are commonly used at home by people who want to evaluate their hearing. Devices that are used in audiology centers are very efficient and accurate. They are also very expensive. They are well calibrated and this is why they are more precise.
If you think that your ears are not working very well it is advisable to take an audiometer hearing test. Doctors carry out basic tests before using audiometers on their patients. They might start by using tuning forks. The initial screening determines whether you require a thorough test to be done. Audiometers are only used after it has been decided that you need a thorough screening. This device is used by audiologists.
This device is mostly used by audiologists and not doctors. The screening involves several tests. The first thing that specialists do is to ask questions to try and figure out what might be causing your hearing loss. You may be asked questions regarding your kind of work as well as your medical history. After answering the questions the actual test will be carried out.
You need to wear a pair of headphones before getting started. Make sure that you place them over the ears properly. They should block all other sounds from the room. When you are ready you should start receiving sounds from the headphones. The sound will hit the ears one at a time. This is because the test should evaluate both ears individually. This way, specialists can determine whether you have a problem in one ear or both of them.
The sound in the head phones is switched to various frequencies and levels. This helps to identify the levels that you can hear and those that you cannot. Depending with the specialist you may be required to use the feedback button or your arms to indicate when you hear a sound. The tone will keep varying.
When you do not hear any sound from the headphones you should not worry because it is expected. The audiologist needs to find out the lowest level of sound that you can hear. The test will determine how serious your loss is. In some instances you may be required to go for a more serious evaluation. It is important to take your time and answer the questions as accurately as you can.
Whenever you have a hearing problem it is advisable to do an audiometer hearing test. This will determine how serious your problem is and the kind of treatment options you have. You may need to go for a more specialized screening to determine the treatment options that you will be comfortable with.
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