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If you have experienced any of the following symptoms then you may need a hearing test: difficulty hearing conversations, needing to increase voices on TV/radio, and difficulty hearing speech in noisy environments. Some of the hearing clinics offer free hearing tests, some require the audiology test to be recommended. When deciding which option is best to meet your hearing health needs, it is important to know the difference between the two.
What is a Free Hearing Test?
A free hearing test is generally a simple screening to check whether or not a hearing problem is present. Many hearing aid providers say that it is a first step to people who are concerned about their hearing loss.
During a free hearing test you will be able to:
- Answer questions about your hearing concerns.
- Perform basic screening of hearing.
- Listen to tones with a pair of headphones.
- Have a general assessment of your hearing.
A free hearing test may be beneficial if anyone is concerned about a possible hearing loss, as well as to determine if they need additional testing. It is often fast, easy and appropriate for individuals who have never had their hearing evaluated before.
There is a need for a variety of information from various specialists to evaluate a person comprehensively.
Widely known as an extensive hearing assessment, the hearing health care professional conducting the test is trained in the field of audiology. It's more than a screening; it provides an overall report of your hearing health.
This evaluation may comprise of:
- Medical and hearing history review, in detail.
- Physical examination check on ears using special equipment.
- Pure-tone audiometry testing.
- Speech recognition and Speech understanding tests.
- Type and severity of hearing loss.
- An evaluation of tinnitus or any other hearing problems.
- Customized suggestions and treatment strategy.
The results are plotted on an audiogram which will accurately diagnose hearing impairments and offer recommendations for treatment.
Key Differences
Basically, there are two differences: depth and accuracy.
As a preliminary screening tool, a free hearing test is performed while a comprehensive audiology assessment serves as a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.
Which option would be the best one to take?
If you simply want to know what's happening to your hearing then a free hearing test could be a good first step.
Make the First Step to Improve Your Hearing
The first sign of hearing loss is the best! If you suspect that you may have a hearing loss, either schedule a free hearing test or proceed immediately to a detailed audiological assessment to ensure that your hearing is assessed and that your quality of life will be improved for years to come.