Having hearing loss or dizziness?
Determining the existence or extent of a hearing loss can involve a number of different tests. At Word & Brown Hearing Center, our diagnostic testing includes adult hearing evaluations, impedance audiometry and acoustic reflex testing, otoacoustic emission testing (OAE), auditory brainstem response testing (ABR), and videonystagmography (VNG). These tests provide information on the exact nature of a specific hearing disorder in order to initiate effective treatment and intervention, including sophisticated hearing aid fitting and testing. The referring physician will receive written reports with a detailed account of the findings and interpretation of test results and make recommendations from the Orange County Fall Prevention and Balance Center.
Audiologic Evaluations
We use pure tone and speech audiometry to determine the type and degree of hearing loss, as well as the extent to which speech is understood by the patient.
Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex
Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex testing allow us to detect disorders in the middle ear. By inserting a soft-tip plug in the ear to alter the pressure and emitting a loud sound, we can gauge the reflexive response. This will reveal any information about potential problems of the middle ear.
Otoacoustic Emission (OAE)
Our Otoacoustic Emission test evaluates auditory function at the cochlea or inner-ear level. We use a soft probe placed in the ear canal to measure acoustic emissions from cells within the cochlea to determine any abnormalities.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
Auditory Brainstem Response measures the reaction of the acoustic nerve to sounds. Using electrodes to pick up the brainwave response to sounds, the ABR provides information on hearing thresholds in specific populations and can assess the functionality of the auditory neural pathway. ABR is recommended in cases of asymmetrical hearing loss, as well as sudden hearing loss or dizziness.
Vestibular Evaluation Rotary Chair
Videonystagmography (VNG) assesses the balance function of the inner ear through a series of vestibular tests. Using a camera to record eye movement, we can analyze the response to light and positional changes. During the final step of VNG, warm and cool water is used in the ear canals to determine any dizziness problems, along with state-of-the-art technology in our new Neuro Kinetics rotary chair. If this sounds like a service you’d be interested in, click here.
