Gehörtest

Gehörtest, commonly translated as hearing test, is a set of procedures used to assess an individual’s auditory function. It aims to determine whether there is hearing loss, measure its degree, identify the type of loss (conductive, sensorineural, or mixed), and inform appropriate management or follow-up.

The most widely used measurements include pure-tone audiometry, which determines air and bone conduction thresholds across several frequencies to produce an audiogram expressed in decibels Hearing Level (dB HL). Speech audiometry evaluates the ability to hear and understand speech, often using measures such as the speech reception threshold and word recognition scores. Additional tests may include tympanometry to assess middle-ear function, otoacoustic emissions to test outer hair cell function, and auditory brainstem response testing to evaluate neural pathways from the ear to the brain. Neonatal and pediatric screening frequently employs automated OAE or automated ABR methods to identify hearing impairment early.

Test administration occurs in controlled environments with calibrated equipment. The examiner ensures proper earphones or insert earphones fit, provides clear instructions, and records responses to infer hearing thresholds. The results are interpreted in the context of age, medical history, and functional needs. Limitations may arise from poor test cooperation, background noise, or equipment calibration issues, which can affect accuracy and reliability.

Gehörtests are used in clinical audiology, primary care, occupational health, and school screening. They support diagnosing ear disorders, planning interventions such as hearing aid fitting or cochlear implants, and monitoring hearing changes over time. They form a core component of audiological care and ear health assessment.