Pure Tone Audiometry

Pure-tone audiometry is a diagnostic test used to assess an individual's hearing sensitivity and detect any hearing loss or impairment. It is one of the most common and fundamental tests in audiology and is conducted by an audiologist or a trained healthcare professional. Here is a description of pure-tone audiometry:

Purpose:

Pure-tone audiometry is used to determine a person's ability to hear sounds at various frequencies, typically measured in Hertz (Hz). The test is essential for evaluating the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss.

Test Setup:

The test is usually conducted in a soundproof booth or room to eliminate external noise and ensure accurate results.

Equipment:

An audiometer, a specialized machine that produces pure-tone sounds at various frequencies and intensities, is used for the test. Headphones or insert earphones are employed to deliver the sound to the patient.

Procedure:

• During the test, the patient sits in a soundproof booth and listens to a series of pure tones at different frequencies and sound levels. The patient is asked to respond whenever they hear a sound, typically by pressing a button or raising their hand.
• The audiologist records the softest sounds the patient can hear at different frequencies and intensities, creating an audiogram. An audiogram is a graph that represents the individual's hearing threshold, with frequency (pitch) on the horizontal axis and intensity (loudness) on the vertical axis.

Types of Hearing Loss:

Based on the results of the pure-tone audiometry, different types of hearing loss can be diagnosed:

• Conductive Hearing Loss: This occurs when sound is not conducted effectively through the ear canal, eardrum, or middle ear. It is often treatable.
• Sensorineural Hearing Loss: This results from damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve and is usually permanent.
• Mixed Hearing Loss: A combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.