What are the names of the two tests to detect hearing problems that require the use of a tuning fork?
DiagnosisTests to diagnose hearing loss may include: Show
TreatmentIf you have hearing problems, help is available. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your hearing loss. Options include:
Mayo Clinic Minute: Hearing aids not 'one-size-fits-all'Cynthia Hogan, Ph.D., Audiology, Mayo Clinic Dr. Hogan: "Hearing aids, because they're digital, can be adjusted over a wide range of hearing loss." That's one reason why audiologist Dr. Cynthia Hogan says with these devices, one-size-fits-all does not apply. Dr. Hogan: "So there isn't one best hearing aid for older people versus younger people. We try to choose a hearing aid that's going to fit the person's needs." Important decisions include whether the device will have rechargeable batteries or ones that need to be replaced, and whether the hearing aid will sit behind or in the ear. Dr. Hogan: "This is a full-shell, in-the-ear hearing aid. And, so, it fits all into the ear." One of the benefits of this device is wearers can answer and listen to a phone call as they have their whole life. Some hearing aids can even connect to a person's cellphone. Dr. Hogan: "They can watch videos or things like that directly from their phone to their hearing aid." An audiologist like Dr. Hogan can help you sort through all the options and create a personal solution for your hearing problem. For the Mayo Clinic News Network, I'm Jeff Olsen. Note: This content was created prior to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and does not demonstrate proper pandemic protocols. Please follow all recommended Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for masking and social distancing. Clinical trialsExplore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. Coping and supportThese tips can help you communicate more easily despite your hearing loss:
Preparing for your appointmentIf you suspect you may have hearing loss, call your doctor. After an initial evaluation, your doctor may refer you to a hearing specialist (audiologist). Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment. What you can do
For hearing loss, some questions to ask include:
What to expect from your doctorYour doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, including:
What is the Weber tuning fork test?The Weber test compares hearing in the two ears with each other. A vibrating tuning fork is held midline against the patient's forehead (A). The patient is asked whether one ear hears the fork more loudly. Unequal perception of sound indicates a conductive deficit in the loud ear or a neural deficit in the quiet ear.
What type of hearing loss can be tested using a tuning fork?General practitioners can use otoscopy and the tuning fork tests to differentiate between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
What is the Weber test used for?The Weber test is a useful, quick, and simple screening test for evaluating hearing loss. The test can detect unilateral conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. The outer and middle ear mediate conductive hearing.
What is the test used to detect hearing impairment?Audiometry tests can detect whether you have sensorineural hearing loss (damage to the nerve or cochlea) or conductive hearing loss (damage to the eardrum or the tiny ossicle bones). During an audiometry evaluation, a variety of tests may be performed.
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