An in-depth hearing test, the most accurate results, the best solutions for you to hear better

Hearing Test Dublin & across Ireland at Our hearing aid centres

To do our job properly, we need first class reliable results, so in order that we deliver the best help possible we have made sure that we have state of the art hearing test equipment at our hearing aid centres in Dublin and across Ireland. That equipment gives us the first class results that we need to deliver the best recommendations to our customers.

Using internationally recognised, best practise processes we will ascertain exactly what is going on with your hearing and what is the best option for you.

We deliver those hearing tests in Dublin & across Ireland. The hearing test is made up of several tests that give us the information we need to fully evaluate hearing function. This allows us to understand exactly what is going on with your hearing. With a full and clear diagnosis we can then assess if you are suitable for hearing aids.

A Clear Path

When we have finished your hearing test, we will set out and agree with you a clear way forward that covers all of the elements of your treatment. This allows you to be clear on what we propose, how we propose to deliver it and how you can be expected to benefit from it in the long term.

The Hearing Test

The hearing test can involve the following tests;

Pure tone testing (Audiometry)
Speech testing 
Tympanometry
Acoustic Reflex Threshold testing
Speech Testing

This group of tests is plotted on our system which allows us to assess the impact that your hearing loss is having on your understanding of speech sounds. It helps to answers the question of whether or not hearing sensitivity is within normal range, or if there is a hearing loss or hearing sensitivity that is outside of the range of normal. The test results are also used as a tool to reveal exactly how your loss is effecting your understanding of speech in both quiet and noisy situations. This test and the rest of the group of tests also give us information toward a diagnosis of ear abnormalities. This test is also an excellent tool for assisting us in the reccomendation of suitable hearing aids because it allows us to define the sounds in speech that you have most difficulty with.

How it is performed

Our specialist system allows us to present speech to you in both quiet and noisy situations. During these tests you will be asked to repeat words that are presented to you at normal speech volume  levels. Word recognition scores will be determined when you repeat words that are presented at this normal listening level. 

Audiometry ( Hearing Test)

This group of tests is plotted on an audiogram which shows your hearing sensitivity. It answers the question of whether or not hearing sensitivity is within normal range, or if there is a hearing loss or hearing sensitivity that is outside of the range of normal. The test results are also used as a tool to reveal any asymmetry (hearing sensitivity that is not equal between the two ears). The audiometric configuration (the “shape” of the thresholds) and the rest of the group of tests also give us information toward a diagnosis of ear abnormalities. 

How it is performed

This battery of tests involves carefully listening through headphones that are placed over the ears or insert earphones that are placed in the ear canals. Next, pure tones will be presented through the headphones or insert earphones, as well as through a bone conduction vibrator on a headband that is placed behind the ear. You will listen for the softest level you can detect, and will push a button or raise your hand in response. This will determine your hearing thresholds.

Additional tests may be added to the group of tests if an asymmetry of thresholds is found, or if you have tinnitus or dizziness.

Tympanometry

What is it?

This test measures how well your middle ear works. Your middle ear includes your ear drum, the middle ear bones, and your Eustachian tube. It will reveal abnormalities which will signify and can explain a conductive hearing loss and/or a sensation of pressure in the ear.

How it is performed

An ear tip is placed in the canal that is connected to a machine that briefly varies the pressure in the ear. By varying the pressure, the movement of the eardrum can be measured. It takes only a few minutes to complete.

Acoustic Reflex Thresholds

What is it?

This test measures how the stapedius muscle contracts in response to a loud sound. The absence or presence of acoustic reflexes can be important for differential diagnosis.

How it is performed

Often times, tympanometry and acoustic reflex thresholds are done together. With the ear tip in your canal, you will hear beeps that are progressively louder. You will not need to respond. Instead, the machine will automatically measure the response.

How long does the group of tests take?

The group of tests is completed in 60 minutes. After the testing, the results are reviewed with you and recommendations are made.

Hearing Test Results

The results of your tests will be recorded on a form called an audiogram, which we will review with you. The audiogram reflects your hearing loss in frequencies and decibels on a graph. You will be shown the type, pattern, and degree of hearing loss, as well as the percentage of normal conversational speech that you are still able to hear.We will then relate these results to your concerns about your hearing.

Hearing Aid Benefit Assessment

If you are a suitable candidate for hearing aids, we will then move onto a hearing aid benefit assessment. During this test we use our fitting suite to fit a set of suitable hearing aids to your defined loss. We then use Real Ear Measurement (REM) to verify that the devices are delivering the amplification that you need. We will then undertake aided speech tests to ascertain the benefit delivered.

Hearing Loss Treatment Solutions

The next step is to consider treatment solutions. You can count on our team to take the time necessary to understand your concerns so that they can provide you with everything you need to make an informed personal decision.