Hearing evaluations (audiometry)

What is a hearing evaluation?

A hearing evaluation, or audiometry exam, is a series of tests that measures your ability to hear sound at different pitches (frequency of sound waves) and loudness (intensity of a sound). You may need a hearing evaluation if you’re having hearing loss symptoms. Or you may have a hearing screening as part of a routine exam, even if you don’t have hearing problems. Audiologists (health-care providers specializing in hearing, ear, and balance disorders) perform hearing evaluations.

The Audiology, Hearing, and Balance program at Penn Medicine offers comprehensive hearing evaluations using the latest diagnostic techniques and tools. A skilled team of audiologists, otologists, and neuro-otologists works together to give you the answers and treatments you need, tailored to your lifestyle and budget.

Types of hearing evaluations

Audiological assessments help us determine what type of hearing loss you have, its cause, and whether it’s mild, moderate, or severe. An experienced team selects the right hearing tests for your needs.

Who needs a hearing evaluation? 

Talk to your healthcare provider about a hearing test if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty hearing or understanding with background noise
  • Hearing loss in one ear
  • Need people to repeat themselves or speak louder
  • Sensation of clogged ears
  • Sounds seem muffled or unclear
  • Tinnitus (ringing in your ears)
  • Trouble talking or hearing on the phone

What to expect from an audiometry test

Hearing tests usually take place in a soundproof room. During the tests, you hear various sounds and words at different pitches and volumes. You wear headphones for most tests. For other tests, we may insert small probes into your ears or attach electrodes to your head.

Depending on the tests you need, the process may take 20 minutes to one hour. Some people may notice a slight ringing in their ears after the evaluation, but this is temporary. Your test results will be visible on a chart called an audiogram. Your audiologist will review your results with you, explain the cause and severity of your hearing loss, and discuss treatment options.

Preparing for a hearing evaluation

You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for a hearing evaluation. At your appointment, be sure to tell the audiologist or audiology technician about your symptoms and hearing history. You should also report any other issues you may be experiencing, such as dizziness, headaches, or balance problems.

A better-sounding life starts at Penn Medicine

Hearing loss can have a major impact on your quality of life. It affects how you interact with others and the world around you. Hearing loss can take many forms and affects everyone differently. That’s why we take an individualized approach to hearing loss evaluation and treatment. Our experts draw on a wide range of medical and surgical therapies, including the latest hearing aids and cochlear implants from industry-leading manufacturers.

Hearing device evaluations at Penn Medicine provide comprehensive assessments and guide you through the process of hearing aid selection, fitting, and maintenance. In addition, the Center for Adult-Onset Hearing Loss is dedicated to genetic testing and treatment for older adults with hereditary hearing loss.

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