Here at East Coast, we offer a thorough diagnostic hearing evaluation in a soundproof booth to determine if hearing loss is present. We understand that older adults with hearing loss have a greater risk of developing dementia, and we strive to address this issue through personalized treatment plans. Hearing loss can negatively affect cognitive abilities such as memory and concentration.  Older adults with hearing loss have a greater risk in developing dementia than older adults with normal hearing. Click here to learn more about the connection between hearing loss and cognitive health.  With our state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology, we ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. Experience the difference at East Coast Audiology and Physical Therapy. 

Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations at East Coast Audiology and Physical Therapy

At East Coast Audiology and Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing thorough and compassionate care to help you maintain optimal hearing health. Our comprehensive hearing evaluations are designed to accurately assess your auditory abilities and identify any hearing issues you may be experiencing. Whether you’re concerned about hearing loss, balance issues, or auditory processing, our expert audiologists are here to guide you every step of the way.

What to Expect During Your Hearing Test

A hearing evaluation at our clinic is a simple, painless process that includes several important components:

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1. Medical History and Consultation: We’ll begin by discussing your medical history and any hearing concerns you may have, such as difficulty hearing in noisy environments, ringing in your ears (tinnitus), or family history of hearing loss.

2. Visual Examination of the Ear (Otoscopy)​ : Our audiologist will use an otoscope to inspect your ear canal and eardrum. This visual examination helps detect any obstructions, ear wax, infections, or abnormalities that might affect your hearing.

3. Pure-Tone Audiometry: This is the standard test used to measure how well you can hear different sounds. You’ll wear headphones and listen to a series of tones, pressing a button or raising your hand when you hear them. This helps us determine the softest sounds you can detect across a range of frequencies.

4. Speech Audiometry: In this test, we’ll measure your ability to understand and repeat words spoken at various volumes. This gives us a better idea of how well you can comprehend speech, especially in noisy environments.

5. Tympanometry: This test helps us assess the function of your middle ear, particularly the movement of your eardrum, to determine if there is fluid, infection, or pressure problems that may be affecting your hearing.

6. Acoustic Reflex Testing: This test measures the reflexive contraction of the middle ear muscles in response to loud sounds. It helps evaluate the neural pathways of the auditory system and can indicate possible issues within the auditory nerve or brainstem.

7. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs): OAEs test the function of the outer hair cells in the inner ear. A small probe placed in the ear canal emits sounds and records the echoes produced by the inner ear. This test is useful in detecting inner ear damage and is often used for newborn hearing screenings.