Online hearing tests have become increasingly popular in recent years as technology has advanced and become more accessible.
With the convenience of taking a hearing test from the comfort of home, more and more people are turning to online options to save time and money. But what should a person expect from an online hearing test compared to an in-person test conducted by a professional?
Let’s compare and contrast the two types of hearing tests and examine the advantages and disadvantages of each. We must look at the types of technology used in online tests, the accuracy of the results, and how they compare to those of professional, in-person tests.
Additionally, we will cover the different types of tests that are available. Whether you’re looking to save time and money or want the most accurate results possible, this article will help you decide the type of hearing test that is best for you.
What Is an Online Hearing Test?
An online hearing test is an online assessment tool that helps evaluate a person’s ability to hear different sound frequencies.
It’s used to diagnose hearing loss or assess a hearing aid’s effectiveness. The test is completed via a computer or mobile device and involves listening to a series of tones at different frequencies and levels.
Not All Online Tests Are Created Equal
Online hearing tests can provide a basic assessment of a person’s hearing ability and are typically used as a screening tool to determine if they should seek further testing.
Online tests can sometimes be inaccurate. To correctly measure a person’s hearing, a test needs to be tailored to the individual’s specific needs and monitored by a professional hearing expert.
Online tests usually use generic questions and don’t take into account the individual’s lifestyle and environment.
For example, an online test may ask you to identify different tones and pitches, but it won’t consider factors like background noise or the volume at which you listen to audio.
Online hearing tests usually don’t measure the full range of a person’s hearing.
What Is the Best Alternative to Online Hearing Tests?
In-person hearing tests performed by professional hearing care experts like us are more comprehensive and individually focused.
These tests involve a face-to-face conversation with a trained professional who can assess your personal hearing ability more accurately. We will ask questions to determine your hearing history and perform a physical examination of each ear.
We use specialized equipment to measure hearing thresholds and detect any abnormalities. This type of testing is more reliable than online tests and can provide a more detailed diagnosis of a person’s hearing ability.
Online Hearing Tests vs. In-Person Hearing Tests
Hearing Tests We Perform
Pure Tone Audiometry – This test is used to determine the type and severity of hearing loss. It measures the lowest audible level of sound (hearing threshold) by presenting pure tones in frequencies ranging from 250 Hz to 8000 Hz through headphones that are placed in the ear canal.
Otoacoustic Emissions Testing – OETs are used to measure the reaction of the tiny hair cells in the cochlea to sound. To do this, a soft tip is inserted into the ear, and clicking or buzzing sounds are transmitted to stimulate the hair cells. If the hair cells are healthy, they will emit a faint echo that can be measured with specialized equipment.
Auditory Brainstem Response Testing – ABR is commonly used for early hearing loss screening in babies and people who are unable to complete a standard hearing test. During the test, electrodes are attached to the skin, and sound is delivered through headphones. The computer then records how the brain responds to the sound.
Tympanometry – We use this test to measure the eardrum’s response to a subtle change in pressure in the ear canal. The data collected through this test can be used to detect the presence of fluid behind the eardrum, a ruptured eardrum, or other middle ear issues.
How to Schedule an In-Person Hearing Test
Although there is a short commute involved for an in-person hearing test, it’s more than worth the travel. We make it easy to choose the time that works best for you by contacting us here.
You’re never too old or too young to give your hearing the attention it deserves. As one of the foundations of how we communicate with others, it’s crucial we protect our hearing at all costs.
If you or a loved one need assistance with anything hearing-related, request a callback. We’re prepared to help everyone here in Southern Ontario.
