subject: What Is The Tympanometry Hearing Test? [print this page] When you are experiencing any type of loss of the ability to hear, seek out a specialist to perform a hearing test for you. In fact, you will go through a series of tests to determine if there are potential complications with your ability to hear as well as what those complications could be. One of the tests you will have is called a tympanometry. This procedure is nothing to be worried about, but it is one of the first ones you can expect when you see an audiologist. It is a good idea to discuss any of your problems or concerns prior to the test.
Your Eardrum
During this initial hearing test, your audiologist will discuss your symptoms and any concerns you may have. This process is important because it allows the doctor to better understand why you are experiencing symptoms. Once the discussion stops, the doctor will perform this test, which focuses on the eardrum.
Your doctor is looking specifically at the movement of the eardrum. The test does not cause any pain at all. All you will need to do is to relax. The readings are taken within a matter of moments. The movements of the eardrum are recorded in an effort to understand if the eardrum and other components of the ear are functioning normally.
What Happens
During the tympanometry procedure, you will lay still while the doctor places the very tip of a tool in your ear. This tool will not hurt or even feel uncomfortable. It works to change the amount of air pressure present in the ear. It then produces a clear tone. In doing this, it is able to determine how the eardrum responds to the changes in the sounds and the air pressure.
Why Do It?
There are many reasons for this procedure. In short, though, it establishes a baseline from which your doctor can further work. It can also tell your audiologist if there are any infections occurring in this area. If you have another medical issue, such as a blockage of the Eustachian tube, this is also picked up by this test. Those problems could be the cause of your pain and discomfort, and even loss of the ability to hear in some individuals. However, this is not a total answer so you will likely have additional screenings.
The procedure of testing your ability to hear will require numerous small tests like this. After conducting this one, your doctor will progress through the rest of the hearing test to determine the extent of damage as well as any other complications that may be present.
