An Audiometer Offers Many Advantages

By Myrtle Cash


An audiometer is a machine used by ENT specialists and audiologists for the purpose of measuring an individual's hearing loss. At first glance, the device has a similar appearance to a volt meter. The latter is a sound system that functions in much the same way as the aforementioned machine. However, an audiometer is specifically designed to assist medical professionals to diagnose hearing loss in adults and children.

Prior to the invention of the device, the most difficult challenge experienced by medical professionals was diagnosing each patient's level of hearing loss, especially if the person was death only in one ear. In numerous instances, audiologist had to rely on manual tests, including clapping their hands at different intensities to create various sound volumes. However, this type of diagnosing was very hit and miss, and subsequently often inaccurate.

Because of advancements in medical technology, numerous machines are now available that provide a more complicated and efficient way to evaluate patients with different types of hearing problems. After the advent of the first model, audiometers have undergone many changes as well. The machine can now produce virtually all frequency levels needed to accurately test each person's level of hearing.

An audiogram is also something that the device is capable of producing. This is transmitted onto graph paper, which can then be sent to a specialist or doctor for evaluation. After the latter is accomplished, the person suffering from hearing loss can then be fitted for a hearing aid device or further tests can be ordered. The course of action taken will be determined by the facts found on the audiogram.

The meter essentially functions by transmitting a vast array of frequencies, which are played at various volumes and intensities. The sounds are played at a slightly lower volume throughout each sequence. At a certain point, the patient being tested will no longer be able to clearly hear each sound.

Even though conducting such tests without a headphone set is possible, the majority of audiologists prefer to use such a set when testing patients' hearing. This is because headphones allow the patient to hear the various frequencies more accurately as they are transmitted through various parts of the device. The patient is typically instructed to respond to each easily distinguishable sound and then communicate to the person giving the test when the sounds become to faint to hear without difficulty.

An audiometer is generally designed as an individual device. However, digital equipment of this type is also available in today's modern world, but it is important to understand that digital devices cannot be used independently. Rather, they are dependent upon particular types of computer software. Speech therapists often use such equipment to evaluate patients.

Because of the advancements in technology that are continually being made in the health care arena, the accuracy of the audiometer will probably be perfected even more in the future. Such devices are highly useful to both ear, nose, and throat specialists and audiologists. In addition, the accuracy they offer is advantageous to virtually all patients who are faced with any type of hearing loss.




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