How Taunton Audiologists Check Ear Health Before Testing

The hearing test results are only reliable if the ear itself is healthy enough to be tested. Therefore, before proceeding to the formal hearing test, the Taunton audiologist will complete a number of checks to diagnose any ear disease and treat it as necessary.

Looking at the Outer Ear

This area is examined for any signs of swelling or for the presence of discharge or irritation. If there is an obvious active problem then this will need to be dealt with prior to undertaking hearing tests.

Otoscopy to See the Ear Drum

The ear canal and eardrum are examined using an otoscope to look for any blockages, such as wax or infection, and to check that the eardrum is intact, clear and properly placed. A perforated or retracted eardrum affects the way sound travels through the middle ear and affects the results obtained during hearing tests.

Questions About Recent Ear Trouble

The patient is asked for any history of recent ear problems such as tinnitus, otalgia, recent colds or recent onset of a feeling of blockage or fluid. Influenza-like illness within the past few weeks can indicate a recent middle ear infection which may affect hearing temporarily.

Checking for Wax or Obstruction

Ear wax is one of the common reasons an Audiometric Test has to be re-arranged for another time as the wax filled canal needs to be cleared prior to testing.

Assessing Canal Shape

As part of the assessment the audiologist will also look at the shape of your ear canal as some people have very narrow canals or even peculiar shapes, and some tests cannot be conducted safely within these types of canals. For Audiologist Taunton, see https://www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/taunton.

These assessments are all usually completed within a few minutes of your arrival.