Nearly 15% of Americans 18 or older have reported some trouble hearing. Online hearing tests have become a useful first step for people who suspect hearing loss or are curious about their hearing health. However, users may wonder about the accuracy of the technology.
Read along to learn more about their functionality and how accurate they are.
How Do Online Hearing Tests Work?
Online hearing tests typically assess your ability to detect different tones and frequencies using your computer or smartphone. There are two types. One includes using headphones or earbuds and listening to sounds. The other is typically a questionnaire.
The process usually involves:
- Listening to a series of tones at various pitches and volumes
- Indicating when you hear a sound by clicking or tapping a button
- Receiving immediate feedback on potential hearing loss levels
Online hearing tests can be convenient and quick but should be used as a first step to assess hearing before making an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Are Online Hearing Tests Accurate?
While online hearing tests can give you a general idea of whether you may have hearing loss, it is a limited assessment. It’s not inaccurate but may leave room for error. They lack key elements that an in-office hearing test would provide, including:
- Medical evaluation
- Background noise control
- Assessment of speech understanding
- Bone conduction testing
Additionally, the accuracy depends on factors like:
- The quality of your headphones or speakers
- The level of background noise during the test
- The calibration of your device’s audio settings
Because of these variables, an online test might detect hearing loss, but it cannot diagnose the cause or know the severity with certainty and may even miss some hearing issues.
Online hearing test are best used to:
- Check in on hearing loss year to year to monitor for changes
- Prepare you with information to bring to your hearing specialist
If an online test suggests possible hearing loss, the next step should always be a visit to a hearing specialist. A professional exam provides a detailed analysis of your hearing health and personalized recommendations for treatment options.
To learn more about hearing tests or to schedule a professional hearing test for you or a loved one, contact Audiology Associates of Redding today.