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Types of Hearing Tests

Learn about the different types of hearing tests, what to expect, and where to get tested in India.

Different types of hearing tests help us identify where the hearing loss occurs, its severity, and how best to manage it.

At Centre For Hearing, we use internationally validated procedures and state-of-the-art equipment to deliver precise results.

Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA)

The Gold Standard

Step-by-step hearing test process

Purpose: To measure your ability to hear different frequencies and volumes through air and bone conduction.

Why It’s Important: Pure Tone Audiometry helps determine the degree and type of hearing loss (conductive, sensorineural, or mixed), forming the foundation for treatment planning or hearing aid fitting.

Graph of hearing levels

What to Expect:

  • You will wear special headphones around your head
  • You need to respond to a series of tones presented to you.
  • The outcome is a graph similar to what is presented above.
  • The report is usually given immediately after the test.
  • The test is painless and takes about 15–30 minutes.

What the PTA Test tells you:

  • Type of hearing loss
  • Degree/severity of hearing loss.
  • This graph can be used further for assessing whether you might need hearing aids, or any alternate line of treatment
  • You might be suggested further tests to perfectly identify certain conditions.

PTA is the most important test to know how your hearing is truly faring.

Read more about the Pure Tone Audiometry hearing test.

Other Diagnostic Hearing Tests

Here’s a simplified overview of other key tests used in hearing diagnosis.

TestPurposeDurationPatient TypeSpecial Notes
Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA)Tests hearing thresholds across frequencies20 minAdults, children (5+ yrs)Requires patient response
Speech AudiometryMeasures speech clarity10–15 minAdultsDone in quiet & noisy environments
Impedance AudiometryTests middle ear (fluid, eardrum movement)5–10 minAll agesQuick and painless
OAEChecks cochlear (inner ear) function5–10 minNewborns, infants, uncooperative patientsNo response needed
BERA / ABRTests brain response to sound60–90 minNewborns, unconscious, delayed speechMay require sedation; used for difficult case
VEMPEvaluates balance-related ear functions30–45 minFor vertigo, balance issuesAdvanced test –Offered at select centres
eCochGDiagnoses Meniere’s Disease / inner ear issues30–60 minSpecialized patientsExpert-led test – offered at select centres

Our advanced hearing tests are painless, quick, and medically accurate. Don’t delay your hearing care journey.

Learn more about diagnosing hearing loss and types of hearing tests.

What Happens After Your Hearing Test?

If your test results indicate hearing loss, our audiologists will guide you through the next step — a hearing aid trial at the clinic.

Hearing Aid Trial Includes:

  • Personalized demo based on your hearing profile
  • Trial of multiple international hearing aid brands
  • Expert fitting and tuning
  • No obligation to purchase

This trial helps you experience better hearing in real-life situations before making a decision.

Where Can You Get These Tests Done?

All the above tests are available at Centre For Hearing clinics in:

We ensure that every centre is equipped with calibrated diagnostic tools and experienced audiologists for accurate evaluation.

Book Your Hearing Test Today

Prioritizing your hearing health is crucial for maintaining an active and fulfilling life. If you or a loved one have concerns about hearing loss, schedule a professional hearing test today. Early detection and intervention can make all the difference.

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