Introduction
Hearing tests are important for anyone who may be experiencing hearing loss or who want to maintain and protect their hearing. In Alberta, there are specific guidelines regarding how these tests should be conducted and what you can expect from them. Keep reading to learn all about hearing tests Alberta.
Who Should Get a Hearing Test
It’s recommended that everyone have their hearing tested at least once every ten years, even if they don’t feel like they have any issues with their hearing. This is especially important for people over the age of 55, as age-related hearing loss is common in this demographic. A regular hearing test can help detect any issues early so that appropriate steps can be taken. Additionally, if you’re exposed to loud noises on a regular basis—such as if you work in a factory or are frequently around machinery—it may be beneficial to get your hearing tested more often.
What Happens During a Hearing Test
At most clinics and hospitals, the first step of your visit will involve filling out paperwork regarding your medical history and lifestyle habits. The doctor will then ask questions related to the type of hearing loss you may be experiencing and whether or not this is temporary or permanent. Following that, the doctor will perform an examination of your ears by examining the inside of your ear canals and checking for any inflammation or infection that may be present.
Once the examination is complete, it’s time for the actual test itself. Depending on the nature of your condition, this could involve something as simple as a basic physical exam or it could include more comprehensive auditory tests such as audiograms or tympanometry measurements. These tests measure how well the different parts of your ear are functioning and can provide insight into why you might be experiencing trouble with your hearing.
At some clinics, there may also be additional tests available such as brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) testing which measures how well sound waves travel from your inner ear to your brain stem. BAER testing is typically only performed when more detailed insights into a patient’s condition are needed but it can provide invaluable information about what kind of treatment an individual might need in order to properly manage their hearing loss.
Conclusion
Hearing tests are an essential part of maintaining good health in Alberta – both physically and mentally – regardless of age or lifestyle habits. Whether you need a basic physical exam or something more comprehensive like BAER testing, it’s important to make sure that you know what kind of tests are available and which ones might best fit your needs so that you can get the best care possible for your particular situation. With a combination of regular exams and proactive care, you can ensure that any potential problems with your hearing health are addressed quickly and effectively before they become worse over time.