The Importance of Audiometry and Tympanometry in Diagnosing Hearing Disorders

Audiology is a specialised field of allied health that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of hearing problems. Audiometry and Tympanometry are two important tests used in audiology to determine the condition of a patient’s hearing and middle ear. These tests are performed by an audiologist and are used to diagnose and manage a variety of hearing disorders.

Audiometry is a hearing test that measures a person’s ability to hear different sounds, frequencies, and pitches. This test is performed in a soundproof room and involves wearing headphones that emit a series of sounds at various frequencies and volumes. The audiologist will ask the patient to indicate when they can hear a sound and at what volume, which allows them to determine the individual’s hearing threshold for each ear. Audiometry is used to diagnose hearing loss, including conductive hearing loss, sensorineural hearing loss, and mixed hearing loss.

Tympanometry, on the other hand, is a test that measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. This test is performed by inserting a small probe into the ear, which then measures the pressure in the middle ear. The probe is used to deliver a series of air pressure changes, and the movement of the eardrum is monitored. Tympanometry is used to diagnose a variety of middle ear problems, including middle ear fluid, perforated eardrum, and middle ear infection.

The combination of audiometry and tympanometry allows the audiologist to gain a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s hearing and middle ear function. The results of these tests can be used to determine the cause of hearing loss and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. It can also help with providing treatment for cochlear implants, middle-ear surgery and ear wax removal.

It is important to note that every individual’s situation is unique, and the appropriate treatment plan will depend on the specific hearing disorder, the results of audiometry and tympanometry tests, and the individual’s personal preferences and needs. An audiologist will work with the patient to develop a personalised treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.

In conclusion, audiometry and tympanometry are essential tests in audiology that play a critical role in the diagnosis and management of hearing disorders. If you or someone you know is experiencing hearing problems, it is recommended that you seek the help of an audiologist. At Helix Hearing, we provide a comprehensive range of audiology services, including audiometry and tympanometry, to help our patients achieve the best possible hearing outcomes. Visit our website at https://www.gippslandaudiology.com.au to learn more about our services and to book an appointment with one of our experienced audiologists.