Pure Tone Audiometry

A Test to Measure Hearing Sensitivity

Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) is a non-invasive, gold-standard diagnostic test used to evaluate an individual's hearing ability. It measures how well a person can detect sounds at various frequencies and volumes.

This test is fundamental in identifying the type and degree of hearing loss, enabling our specialists to recommend personalized solutions such as hearing aids or medical treatments. PTA is suitable for individuals of all ages, from children to the elderly.

Book a Test

TESTING METHODS

Six Major Approaches Used

PTA comprises multiple testing techniques, each tailored to assess different components of the auditory system. These variations help in producing an accurate and comprehensive hearing profile for every patient.

Air Conduction Test

Evaluates hearing by transmitting tones through headphones over the ears.

Bone Conduction Test

Assesses inner ear response by placing a vibrator on the mastoid bone behind the ear.

Speech Audiometry

Tests speech understanding by having the patient repeat words at varying volumes.

High-Frequency Audiometry

Detects hearing loss at higher pitches, often missed in standard tests.

Unmasked Testing

Evaluates both ears together, without isolating one from the other.

Masked Testing

Uses noise to isolate each ear and test it independently with higher accuracy.

TEST PROCEDURE

Step-by-Step Process

The Pure Tone Audiometry test is carried out in a quiet, sound-treated room using specialized audiometric equipment. This controlled environment ensures precision in capturing hearing thresholds. Here’s how the process unfolds.

Patient Preparation

1. Briefing the Test Process

The audiologist explains the entire testing procedure, sets expectations, and answers any questions to ensure the patient feels informed and comfortable throughout.

2. Seating in Sound-proof Booth

The patient is guided into a sound-treated booth that eliminates external noise, providing a controlled environment for accurate hearing threshold measurements.

3. Positioning of Headphones

Specialized headphones are carefully placed over the patient’s ears to ensure proper alignment and comfort, allowing precise sound delivery during the test.

Air Conduction Testing

1. Sounds Played Via Headphones

Pure tones are delivered through headphones to assess how well sound travels through the outer and middle ear structures.

2. Patient Presses Button on Hearing

The patient responds by pressing a button whenever they hear a sound, allowing the audiologist to identify hearing sensitivity at various pitches.

3. Covers Various Frequencies

Testing spans multiple frequencies, typically from 250 Hz to 8000 Hz, to determine the full range of hearing capability in both ears.

Bone Conduction Testing

1. Vibrator Placed on Mastoid Bone

A bone vibrator is positioned behind the ear on the mastoid bone to directly stimulate the inner ear through vibrations.

2. Measures Inner Ear Response

This test bypasses the outer and middle ear, evaluating only the cochlea's ability to detect sound through bone vibration.

3. Compares with Air Conduction

Results are compared with air conduction findings to determine if the hearing loss is conductive, sensorineural, or a combination.

Speech Audiometry

1. Repetition of Spoken Words

The patient listens to and repeats specific spoken words, helping assess their clarity of hearing in everyday communication situations.

2. Volume Adjusted for Clarity

Speech is presented at different loudness levels to find the softest volume at which words can be accurately recognized and repeated.

3. Measures Speech Recognition

The test evaluates how clearly a patient can hear and understand speech, even when background noise or low volume is present.

Masking Process

1. Prevents Ear Crossover

Masking introduces controlled background sound to the non-test ear to prevent it from detecting tones meant for the opposite ear.

2. White Noise Added

White or narrowband noise is played into one ear, effectively isolating the specific hearing response of the ear being tested for accurate diagnostic evaluation.

3. Ensures Test Accuracy

By blocking the non-test ear, masking ensures more reliable, ear-specific results that lead to an accurate hearing diagnosis.

Result Analysis

1. Audiogram Plotted

An audiogram chart is created using the patient’s responses, mapping hearing thresholds across a wide range of frequencies.

2. Hearing Threshold Levels Shown

The graph clearly shows the softest sounds the patient can hear at each tested frequency, for both ears, helping guide precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

3. Discussed with Audiologist

The audiologist explains the audiogram, detailing the type and degree of hearing loss, and recommends the next steps for care.

DIAGNOSTIC VALUE

Detects Hearing Loss Causes

Pure Tone Audiometry helps in diagnosing hearing loss across different types—conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. It reveals the severity of hearing impairment and pinpoints whether the problem lies in the outer, middle, or inner ear.

Early Detection

Identifies hearing issues before they become severe, enabling early intervention and treatment.

Treatment Planning

Assists audiologists in recommending appropriate hearing aids or medical/surgical options.

Hearing Monitoring

Tracks hearing changes over time, useful for chronic or progressive conditions.

Type Differentiation

Accurately distinguishes between types of hearing loss for better-targeted care.

95% Accuracy

30+ Tests Conducted Weekly

1000+ Satisfied Patients

24 Hour Result Delivery

CALL US NOW +91 80155 99556

Schedule Your PTA Test With Us Today

Request a Call Back

Submit

WHY CHOOSE US

Excellence in Diagnostics

We are committed to maintaining the highest standards in hearing diagnostics. From advanced testing equipment to experienced audiologists, we ensure every patient receives care that is accurate, respectful, and reassuring.

Modern Equipment

We use advanced diagnostic machines that deliver accurate and consistent hearing test results.

Certified Audiologists

Our audiologists are ISO-certified professionals and well experienced in diagnosing hearing conditions.

Hygienic Environment

Our testing rooms are thoroughly sanitized, sound-treated, and designed for patient comfort.

Quick Report Delivery

Receive your detailed hearing test results within 24 hours for faster diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions, Our Answers

Questions about hearing? We’ve got the answers — from our experts at Hearingg Clinic, Trichy.

1. What is Pure Tone Audiometry used for?

Pure Tone Audiometry is used to determine the softest sounds a person can hear at different frequencies. It’s essential in identifying hearing loss type and severity. The results help audiologists create a personalized care plan, whether it involves hearing aids, medical treatment, or further testing to improve hearing health and overall quality of life.

2. Is the test painful or uncomfortable?

Not at all. Pure Tone Audiometry is completely safe, painless, and non-invasive. The test involves sitting in a quiet room, wearing headphones, and pressing a button when you hear tones. It’s a stress-free process that doesn’t involve any discomfort and is suitable for people of all ages, including children and older adults.

3. How long does the test take?

The Pure Tone Audiometry test usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes. However, the exact time may vary depending on the number of tests performed, including air conduction, bone conduction, and speech audiometry. Our audiologists ensure the process is smooth, efficient, and as brief as possible without compromising accuracy or comfort.

4. Can children undergo PTA testing?

Yes, children can safely undergo Pure Tone Audiometry. We use child-friendly techniques such as play audiometry to ensure cooperation and accurate results. Our experienced audiologists are skilled at working patiently with children, making the process easy, gentle, and reassuring for both kids and their parents during the evaluation.

5. Do I need to prepare before the test?

No special preparation is required before a Pure Tone Audiometry test. Just make sure your ears are clean and let the audiologist know about any ear pain, infections, or recent symptoms. You may eat, drink, and follow your usual routine before the test—no restrictions are necessary for accurate results.

Ready to Check Your Hearing Health?

Starting your hearing test is quick, easy, and essential. Book now to get expert insights and personalized care tailored to your hearing needs.

FOR APPOINTMENTS: +91 80155 99556
OR
DROP US AN EMAIL: wecare@hearinggclinic.com

Schedule Your Test!

Fill in your details to confirm appointment.