audiometrit

Audiometria is a medical procedure used to measure a person's hearing ability. It is a crucial diagnostic tool for identifying hearing loss, its type, and its severity. Audiometry tests assess hearing across a range of frequencies and intensities.

There are several types of audiometric tests. Pure-tone audiometry is the most common, where a patient indicates when they hear specific tones at varying pitches and loudness levels. This test establishes the softest sound a person can hear at each frequency, known as the hearing threshold. Speech audiometry evaluates the ability to understand spoken words at different volume levels. Tympanometry measures the function of the middle ear and eardrum's mobility. Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) test the function of the inner ear (cochlea).

Audiometry is performed by audiologists, who are healthcare professionals specializing in hearing and balance disorders. The results are typically plotted on an audiogram, a graph that visually represents hearing thresholds. This information helps determine the cause of hearing problems, whether they are conductive (in the outer or middle ear), sensorineural (in the inner ear or auditory nerve), or mixed. It also guides treatment options, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants, and helps monitor the progression of hearing loss. Regular audiometric testing is recommended for individuals with risk factors for hearing loss or those experiencing symptoms like difficulty understanding speech or ringing in the ears.