Taking care of our hearing is more important than it seems. Many times we notice small changes, but we let them pass. We turn up the TV volume a bit more, ask people to repeat things… and move on. The problem is that hearing well directly affects our daily life: how we speak with others, how we work, and even our safety.
That’s why it’s important to check our hearing from time to time. And one of the most useful tests to do this is audiometry.
Audiometry: what it is
Audiometry is a simple test used to find out how well we are hearing. It doesn’t hurt, it’s not invasive, and it takes just a few minutes. Basically, it consists of listening to different sounds and letting the specialist know when we hear them. This way, the hearing level of each ear can be measured.
The test is carried out with a device that emits low and high sounds at different volumes. It can also assess how we understand certain words, which is very important because sometimes the problem is not just hearing, but clearly understanding what we are being told. With all this information, it is possible to know whether there is hearing loss and to what degree.
How does audiometry work?
During the test, we are given headphones. We listen to sounds and every time we hear one, we indicate it, usually by pressing a button. In this way, the lowest volume we are able to perceive at each frequency is recorded.
In some cases, bone conduction is also measured with a small device placed behind the ear. This helps determine where the problem may be, if there is one. At the end, a graph is obtained that clearly reflects the state of our hearing.
Benefits of audiometry
Audiometry is not only for people who already have problems. It is a very useful tool to prevent, monitor, and improve our hearing health.
Early detection of hearing problems
Many hearing losses appear little by little. We don’t always realize it at first. With an audiometry test, these changes can be detected before they affect our daily life too much.
An untreated hearing problem can get worse. Detecting it in time helps prevent it from progressing and affecting other aspects, such as concentration or balance.
Personalization of treatment
Each person hears differently. Audiometry makes it possible to know exactly what we need. If hearing aids need to be fitted, they are adjusted according to the real results. This makes the solution much more effective and natural.
Monitoring and control of hearing
It’s not just about detecting a problem, but seeing how it evolves. Having regular check-ups allows us to check whether everything remains the same, has improved, or if some adjustment is needed.
Improvement of quality of life
Hearing well allows us to communicate better, avoid misunderstandings, and feel more confident. Something as simple as clearly understanding a conversation can make a big difference in everyday life.
Protection against noise
Knowing how our hearing is also helps us protect it. If we are exposed to noise at work or in our environment, we can take hearing protection measures before more significant loss occurs.
Evaluation of previous treatments
If we already use hearing aids or another type of hearing support, audiometry makes it possible to check whether they are working properly and make the necessary adjustments.
Detection of specific problems
The test also helps identify losses at certain frequencies or specific ear problems. This makes it easier to achieve a clearer diagnosis and a more appropriate treatment.
Audiometry to check your hearing
At Audífonos Domínguez, our hearing center in Málaga, we use audiometry as the basis of every check-up. It is the first step to know exactly the state of your hearing and to guide you in the best possible way.
Our team performs the test, clearly explains the results, and proposes different solutions if necessary. In this way, we support each person throughout the entire process, from the check-up to the fitting of hearing aids.
Getting an audiometry test is quick and simple, and it can make a difference. Checking your hearing in time is a simple way to take care of our health and our quality of life. Contact us.
