Hearing Test

A hearing test is a test done for checking your hearing ability. Hearing is when sound waves travel to your ear and vibrate your eardrums, and then these signals are sent to the brain for processing. Any disruption in this process can lead to hearing problems. This is when you need to take a hearing test.

Why do you need a Hearing Test?

Hearing tests are done in cases of hearing loss. Hearing loss is when a part of the ear, nerve, or brain involved in hearing is damaged. This damage may be mild or significant hearing loss.

There are three types of hearing loss

1. Sensorineural: It is also known as nerve deafness, and it occurs when either part of the ear or nerve has a structural problem. It is found at the time of birth or may arise later. It also occurs when the infection (toxoplasmosis, rubella, herpes) passes from the mother to the baby in the womb. It is usually permanent and ranges from mild to profound hearing loss.
2. Conductive: It is a hearing loss where sound doesn't reach your ear. This condition may occur due to an ear infection or fluid buildup. It is commonly found in children and is temporary and treatable.
3. Mixed: It is a combination of both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. In this condition, the sound waves aren't transmitted due to structural issues in the ear and nerve blockage due to fluid and infection.

 

Hearing problems are common and treatable. You must reach out to a doctor if you face any difficulties in hearing or hear buzzing sounds in your ear. Ignoring the situation might worsen the condition and result in something serious. Hence, you should take a hearing test if you feel slight discomfort in your ear.