Audiometry Test in Oman
Comprehensive Audiometry Testing: Accurate Hearing Assessment for Better Hearing Health
PTA ( Pure Tone Audiometry):
The cornerstone of audiological testing is the pure-tone audiogram (PTA) which is used as a screening test for hearing loss. An audiometry test is to determine the severity, type, and reason for Hearing Loss. If hearing loss is present, the type and degree of hearing loss will be determined.
How is it being performed?
The test will be performed by a qualified MOH-certified Audiologist with the patient seated in a soundproof booth. The Audiologist will be seated outside the sound booth and perform the test using a calibrated audiometer.
This test comprises two parts: The air-conduction thresholds test and the bone-conduction thresholds test. For the air-conduction test, the test signals are delivered through a pair of headphones or inserted earphones.
For the bone conduction test, the test signals are delivered through a bone vibrator which conducts the sound directly to the inner ear. Test signals ranged from 250 Hz to 8 KHz and the patients are required to respond by pressing a response button when he/she hears the test signals. Along with this in Audiometry MCL and UCL levels are also measured.
If required Audiologist will do Speech discrimination scoring (SDS) and Speech Reception Threshold (SRT) also.
The test will take about 20 to 25 minutes and the results will provide ear-specific and frequency-specific information on the degree and type of hearing loss.
A comprehensive hearing test report indicating the type and degree of the hearing impairment will be given and explained at the end of the assessment session.
FFA/BOA (Free Field Audiometry/Behavioural Observation Audiometry):
This test is also called play audiometry in which we estimate the threshold by giving the sound through speakers and observing the reflex of the client. It can be used in babies for diagnosing estimated threshold pre-fitting thresholds or aided thresholds post-hearing aid fitting. It is a commonly used tool for getting an Aided hearing response after fitting the hearing aid.
But the Automated tests i.e. ABR & ASSR are more accurate in identifying Hearing loss in pediatric or difficult-to-test clients.
Speech Audiometry:
Puretone Audiometry allows us to evaluate the softest sound one can detect but it does not provide any information about one’s ability to hear and understand speech. A hearing test using speech stimulus will help to find out the person's ability to hear and understand speech and this test is called Speech Audiometry.
Speech test helps in different aspects: -
- To cross-check the pure-tone hearing thresholds
- Help in hearing aid selection
- To assess the suitability of various implant solutions such as - Cochlear implants - Bone Anchored Hearing Aid - Middle Ear Implant
- Help in identifying functional hearing loss.
How is the speech test being performed?
The test is performed by a qualified Audiologist with the patient seated in a calibrated, soundproof room. Live or recorded speech stimuli are delivered through either headphones or speakers. The patient is required to repeat the speech stimulus they hear.
There are two different speech tests:
- SRT: Speech Reception Threshold helps to determine the lowest level a patient can hear and repeat two-syllable words 50% of the time.
- SDT: Speech Discrimination Test This is to determine the speech discrimination ability of an individual. The test is done at a suprathreshold level (about 25 to 30 dB above SRT) and is calculated in terms of percentage.
Hearing is one of our most essential senses, allowing us to connect with the world around us. However, hearing loss can often go unnoticed until it starts affecting daily life. Audiometry testing is a crucial diagnostic tool that helps assess hearing capabilities, detect impairments, and determine the best course of treatment. At Hearing Aids Oman, we offer cutting-edge audiometry tests to ensure optimal hearing health for all our patients.
What is Audiometry Testing?
Audiometry is a non-invasive hearing test that evaluates a person's ability to hear different sounds, pitches, and frequencies. It helps audiologists determine the type and severity of hearing loss, guiding personalized treatment plans, including hearing aids or medical interventions.
Types of Audiometry Tests
At Hearing Aids Oman, we provide various audiometric evaluations to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective hearing solutions:
1. Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA)
- PTA is the most common hearing test.
- It measures the faintest sounds an individual can hear at different frequencies.
- Conducted in a soundproof room, patients listen to tones at various pitches through headphones and indicate when they hear them.
- Results help determine whether hearing loss is sensorineural, conductive, or mixed.
2. Impedance Testing / Tympanometry
- Evaluates middle ear function by measuring eardrum movement (compliance).
- Helps detect conditions like fluid in the middle ear, eardrum perforations, and Eustachian tube dysfunction.
- The test involves inserting a small probe into the ear canal that generates a tone and measures the reflected sound waves.
3. Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA)
- Also known as Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR), this test evaluates electrical activity in the hearing nerve and brainstem.
- Ideal for patients who cannot respond to conventional hearing tests, such as infants or individuals with neurological disorders.
- Helps diagnose conditions like auditory neuropathy and retrocochlear pathology.
4. Auditory Steady State Response (ASSR)
- A modern auditory test used to estimate hearing sensitivity in individuals with mild to profound sensorineural hearing loss.
- Provides an objective measurement of hearing thresholds.
- Particularly useful for infants and young children who cannot respond reliably to traditional hearing tests.
Why is Audiometry Testing Important?
- Early Detection of Hearing Loss – Identifies hearing impairment before it worsens.
- Customized Treatment Plans – Helps audiologists recommend suitable interventions like hearing aids or medical treatments.
- Improved Quality of Life – Ensures better communication, reducing social isolation and cognitive decline.
- Monitors Hearing Health – Essential for individuals exposed to loud noises at work or those with a family history of hearing loss.
Comprehensive Hearing Solutions at Hearing Aids Oman
At Hearing Aids Oman, we don’t just diagnose hearing issues—we provide effective solutions. Our services include:
- Hearing Aids from Leading Brands – We offer high-quality hearing aids from Germany, Denmark, Austria, and the USA.
- Hearing Aid Repairs & Maintenance – Our specialists ensure that your hearing aids function optimally at all times.
- Tinnitus Management – Customized therapy plans to reduce the impact of tinnitus on daily life.
- Vestibular Diagnostics & Rehabilitation – Treatment for balance disorders related to inner ear problems.
FAQs for Audiometry Testing
Audiometry tests assess hearing ability, detect hearing loss, and help audiologists determine the best treatment approach.
Most audiometry tests take between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity and type of test required.
No, audiometry tests are completely non-invasive and painless.
Yes, audiometry testing can identify sensorineural, conductive, and mixed hearing loss, allowing specialists to recommend appropriate treatments.
If you are experiencing hearing issues, it’s recommended to get tested annually. Those exposed to loud noises or with a family history of hearing loss should also undergo regular screenings.
Hearing Aids Oman offers professional audiometry testing with certified audiologists for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans.