Listening is one of the key factors in communication. Moreover, for communication to achieve its purpose, listening must be effective. Therefore, the “ear”, the organ that allows us to hear and listen to various sounds, should be cared for and regularly checked to ensure that the “ear” is still fully functioning in “hearing”. In this regard, “hearing level tests” help us stay aware and prevent hearing loss.
Hearing Ability Test
The hearing ability test examines the function of the ear and auditory system to assess hearing levels in detail. It serves as a screening test to monitor hearing loss. Those with “normal” hearing have a hearing level between -10 to 25 decibels. If it exceeds 25 decibels, it is considered abnormal hearing.
Preliminary Observations: Do You Have Abnormal Hearing?
Besides visiting a specialist for a hearing test, you can also observe initial symptoms to see if you have abnormal hearing, such as:
- Having difficulty hearing the conversation clearly and needing to ask for repetition frequently
- Turning up the volume of the TV or radio louder than usual
- Having trouble hearing sounds from the phone
- Speaking louder than before
- Experiencing frequent ear fullness or hearing ringing sounds in the ear
- Having a family history of hearing impairment or deafness
Who Should Get a Hearing Test?
Hearing problems can occur at any age. Therefore, everyone should have their hearing tested. The needs differ by age group as follows:
- Children
Hearing tests are very important for this age group because hearing is essential for speech development, especially in young children. Hearing impairment can lead to speech development problems, which in turn affect the child’s learning. - Adults and Elderly
Noise pollution at home or work, as well as certain medications that damage the auditory nerve, all impact hearing. Hearing level tests in this group help reduce the severity of potential symptoms.
Methods of Hearing Testing
Hearing tests are divided according to their purpose: screening and diagnostic tests, which are conducted differently.
- Screening Method
Using a tuning fork to test the hearing of the person being examined, or standing 1 meter away and asking the person 5 words, then testing if they hear all of them. - Diagnostic Method
Using pure tones and speech, gradually lowering the volume level step by step, while the person being tested responds to the sounds they hear.
Hearing Test Procedure
- The patient listens to sounds and responds by raising their hand
- Gradually lowering the volume
- Finding the softest sound the patient can respond to
If abnormalities are detected, entering the treatment process according to the specialist’s discretion and the severity of the condition will help reduce problems and prevent hearing loss better than leaving it untreated.
Every story, every communication requires both a speaker and a listener. “Hearing” is therefore essential for life. If one day you feel the world seems quieter, don’t ignore it… it’s better to get a hearing test from a specialist as soon as possible.
Dr. Methee Ungaphorn
Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist
Ear, Nose, and Throat Center, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital
