What to know about a Signia hearing test

A hearing assessment may include questions about hearing changes, ear symptoms, noise exposure, medicines, and communication difficulties. The clinician may inspect the ear canal and use headphones or inserts to present tones at different pitches and loudness levels. Speech testing may check how clearly you understand spoken words.

Results can help distinguish a problem involving the outer or middle ear from one involving the inner ear or hearing nerve. Earwax Buildup can reduce hearing and may need attention before the result is interpreted. Dizziness, ringing, ear pressure, or fluctuating hearing may need a broader assessment, including consideration of Meniere's Disease.

Bring details of when the change began, whether one or both ears are affected, and situations where speech is difficult. Mention pain, discharge, ringing, dizziness, previous ear surgery, and regular exposure to loud sound. Do not put cotton buds or objects into the ear before the appointment.

During the test, respond whenever you hear a sound, even if it is faint, and tell the clinician if instructions are unclear. Ask for the result in plain language and discuss whether hearing protection, follow-up, or hearing technology could help.

Seek prompt medical assessment for sudden hearing loss, hearing loss after a head injury, severe ear pain, fluid or blood from the ear, new facial weakness, or hearing change with severe dizziness. These symptoms may need assessment before a routine hearing appointment.

Ask whether the result shows conductive or inner-ear hearing loss, whether earwax or infection could be affecting it, whether both ears need monitoring, and what changes should lead you to return sooner.