Hearing Test/OAE

Early detection of hearing loss is important for childhood development. Finding hearing loss early in childhood leads to better speech, language, and learning outcomes for children. Hearing is part of the communication milestones as children grow. Here is our office; we use 2 different hearing screen devices, depending on the child’s age and their ability to cooperate. The OAE (Otoacoustic Emissions) device tests how the inner and middle ear responds to sound. The OAE is an effective screening measure for inner and middle ear abnormalities. This test requires no patient participation and can be used on a newborn through adulthood. Behavioral pure tone audiometry remains the standard for hearing evaluation. This testing requires patient participation and is typically staring between 4 and 6 years of age. The audiometer measures hearing thresholds and can help screen for hearing loss or impairment. Annual screenings for hearing loss can help facilitate appropriate referrals for additional evaluations to specialists when deficits are identified.