Hearing Test

Online hearing assessment

Hearing Evaluations

Acoustic reflex Tests

Comprehensive hearing evaluations

Functional and Communication Needs Assessments

Tinnitus Evaluations

Hearing Testing

What Do We Offer?

Our Hearing Evaluations

Choice Audiology provides several hearing evaluation options including tympanometry, acoustic reflex testing, comprehensive hearing evaluations, functional hearing evaluations, tinnitus evaluations. Tympanometry is a diagnostic test used in audiology to assess the health and function of the middle ear.

The primary purposes of tympanometry include:

Middle Ear Assessment:
Tympanometry helps evaluate the status of the middle ear, including the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and the middle ear cavity, by measuring how the eardrum responds to changes in air pressure.
Detection of Middle Ear Abnormalities:
It assists in identifying abnormalities such as fluid in the middle ear, perforations in the eardrum, or issues with the Eustachian tube function, which can cause conductive hearing loss.
Confirmation of Conductive Hearing Loss:
Tympanometry aids in confirming and differentiating conductive hearing loss from other types of hearing loss by assessing the mobility and compliance of the eardrum and middle ear system.
Assessment of Eustachian Tube Function:
It provides information about the Eustachian tube function, which is essential for maintaining proper pressure in the middle ear and allowing for optimal hearing.
Monitoring Treatment Progress:
Tympanometry is useful for monitoring the effectiveness of treatments for middle ear issues, such as the placement of ear tubes or management of middle ear infections.

an audiologist is working with the male patient

During a tympanometry test, a probe is inserted into the ear canal, and air pressure is varied to measure how the eardrum responds to these pressure changes. The results are plotted on a graph called a tympanogram, which helps audiologists assess the middle ear function and identify any abnormalities that may affect hearing.

Our Acoustic Reflex Tests

The acoustic reflex test in audiology is conducted to assess the integrity of the auditory system, specifically the middle ear and the auditory nerve. This test measures the involuntary muscle contractions that occur in the middle ear in response to loud sounds.

The purposes of conducting an acoustic reflex test include:

Middle Ear Evaluation:
It helps determine the status of the middle ear muscles (tensor tympani and stapedius muscles) and their reflexive responses to loud sounds. This assessment aids in identifying any abnormalities or dysfunction within the middle ear.
Identifying Hearing Disorders:
The test can assist in diagnosing certain types of hearing loss, such as conductive hearing loss, by evaluating the reflex thresholds. Abnormal reflexes or absent reflexes can indicate issues within the auditory system.
Differentiating Types of Hearing Loss:
It aids in distinguishing between conductive, sensorineural, or mixed types of hearing loss based on the patterns observed in the reflex responses.
Monitoring Auditory Nerve Function:
It provides information about the auditory nerve's integrity, as abnormal reflex patterns or thresholds can suggest problems related to the auditory nerve's function.
Assessing Neurological Conditions:
In some cases, abnormal reflexes may indicate underlying neurological conditions affecting the auditory system.

an audiologist is using a special medical equipment

Overall, the acoustic reflex test is an essential component of audiological assessments, providing valuable insights into the health and functionality of the auditory system, assisting in diagnosis, and guiding appropriate treatment plans.

Our Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations

A comprehensive hearing evaluation involves a series of tests and assessments to thoroughly evaluate an individual's hearing abilities and identify any hearing-related issues.

The overall purpose of a comprehensive hearing evaluation is to:

Assessment of Hearing Thresholds:
Pure-tone audiometry is conducted through air and bone conduction to measure the softest sounds a person can hear at different frequencies, assessing the thresholds across the speech frequency range. This helps determine the degree and type of hearing loss, if present.
Speech Audiometry:
This test evaluates the ability to hear and understand speech. It measures speech recognition thresholds (the level at which speech can be barely heard) and word recognition scores to assess how well someone can understand speech.
Diagnose Hearing Loss:
Determine the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss if present.Identify Underlying Issues: Discover any underlying medical conditions or ear-related problems affecting hearing.Provide Guidance: Offer personalized advice, treatment options, and recommendations for managing any identified hearing issues.
Facilitate Intervention:
Assist in the selection and fitting of hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices if needed.Enable Monitoring: Establish a baseline for future evaluations and monitoring of hearing health over time.

a man with headphones on going through a hearing test

By conducting a comprehensive evaluation, audiologists can provide a tailored approach to address individual hearing needs and improve overall communication and quality of life for their patients.

Our Functional and Communication Needs Assessments

A Functional and Communication Needs Assessment in audiology is a comprehensive evaluation that goes beyond traditional hearing tests to assess an individual's hearing abilities in various real-life situations and contexts. It aims to understand how hearing loss impacts a person's daily life, communication, and overall functioning.

a Functional and Communication Needs Assessment typically involves:

Detailed Case History:
Gathering information about the individual's lifestyle, communication challenges, work environment, hobbies, and social interactions to understand their specific needs and experiences related to hearing.
Communication Challenges Assessment:
Evaluating the individual's ability to communicate effectively in noisy environments, during telephone conversations, while watching TV, or engaging in group discussions.
Psychosocial Impact Assessment:
Exploring the emotional and social effects of hearing loss, including stress, anxiety, social isolation, and the impact on relationships and overall well-being.
Collaboration and Goal Setting:
Engaging in discussions with the individual and their family/caregivers to set realistic goals, address concerns, and establish a plan tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

an older women with the hand at her ear trying to hear something

The primary goal of a Functional and Communication Needs Assessment is to provide a holistic understanding of how hearing loss affects an individual's daily life and communication abilities. This comprehensive evaluation helps to develop personalized intervention strategies, recommend appropriate hearing devices or technologies, and provide guidance on communication techniques and coping strategies that can significantly improve the individual's communication and overall quality of life.

Tinnitus Evaluations

A tinnitus evaluation is a thorough assessment to evaluate and understand the nature, severity, and impact of tinnitus—the perception of sound in the absence of an external source. The evaluation aims to gather information about the tinnitus experience, its possible causes, and its effects on an individual's daily life.

A tinnitus evaluation typically involves:

Detailed Case History:
The evaluation begins with a comprehensive interview to gather detailed information about the individual's tinnitus experience, including onset, perceived sound characteristics (pitch, loudness, type), duration, and any associated symptoms or triggers.
Hearing Assessment:
A complete hearing evaluation, including pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, tympanometry, and acoustic reflex testing may be conducted to assess hearing sensitivity and identify any underlying hearing loss that could be related to the tinnitus.
Tinnitus Pitch and Loudness Matching:
This involves using specialized equipment to determine the frequency (pitch) and intensity (loudness) of the perceived tinnitus sound. The individual listens to different tones or noises to match the closest resemblance to their tinnitus perception.
Tinnitus Questionnaires:
Various questionnaires or surveys may be administered to assess the impact of tinnitus on the individual's quality of life, emotional well-being, and functional limitations. These questionnaires help quantify the severity and effects of tinnitus.

Tinnitus Management Strategies:
The audiologist may discuss and demonstrate various management techniques and coping strategies aimed at reducing the impact of tinnitus, such as sound therapy, relaxation techniques, counseling, or cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Medical Referral:
Depending on the findings and individual circumstances, referral to a medical professional or specialized tinnitus clinic may be recommended for further evaluation or treatment.
Follow-up and Counseling:
The evaluation often includes counseling and guidance on understanding tinnitus, its possible causes, and strategies to manage and cope with the condition. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor progress and adjust management strategies if needed.

The goal of a tinnitus evaluation is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the tinnitus experience, offer support, and recommend personalized management strategies to help individuals better manage and cope with their tinnitus symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Our Hearing Evaluations

Our Acoustic Reflex Tests

Our Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations

Our Functional and Communication Needs Assessments

Tinnitus Evaluations

Our Other Services