What should you know about a full hearing test?

An audiologist may ask about hearing changes, ringing, dizziness, ear infections, noise exposure and medicines. They may look in the ear before testing. During pure-tone testing, you listen through headphones and signal whenever you hear a tone. Speech testing can show how clearly you understand words. A pressure test may assess the eardrum and middle-ear movement. Results are plotted on an audiogram and compared with each ear separately.

A result can suggest hearing loss in the outer, middle or inner ear, but it does not by itself identify every cause. Earwax buildup can affect hearing and may need treatment before testing. Hearing changes with spinning sensations or ear pressure can need assessment for conditions such as Meniere's Disease.

Bring a list of medicines and mention previous ear surgery, infections or regular loud-noise exposure. Avoid unusually loud sound before the appointment if possible. Follow the testing instructions carefully, because the result depends on responding when a tone or word is heard. Ask when results will be explained and whether you need repeat testing, ear treatment, hearing protection or a referral to another clinician.

Seek prompt medical assessment for sudden hearing loss, especially in one ear, or hearing loss with severe dizziness, facial weakness, a severe headache, ear discharge, significant pain or an injury. Do not delay because the change may need time-sensitive evaluation. Arrange a routine appointment for gradually worsening hearing, persistent ringing, repeated ear blockage or difficulty following conversations.

Which part of my hearing appears affected? Could earwax or middle-ear pressure be contributing? Do I need speech or pressure testing as well? When should my hearing be checked again? What symptoms should prompt an earlier review?