A Look At What An Audiologist Checks During An Ear Health Examination.
An ear health exam involves more than just hearing a tone in a soundproof booth. The routine ear exam of an Audiologist will involve several checks of the ear and its function.
Outer Ear and Canal Inspection
Outer Ear and Ear Canal Inspection: Your Audiologist looks at the outer ear and the ear canal with an otoscope, a small, hand held device. They are checking for any signs of redness, swelling, or skin problems in the outer ear and ear canal.
The Eardrum’s Appearance
The examination of the eardrum is the next step in an ear health exam. The healthy eardrum is a pale, translucent cone shaped membrane. Discoloration, scarring, and a dull or retracted eardrum can indicate a past or current ear problem that needs to be investigated.
Tympanometry
This test assesses how the eardrum and the middle ear are functioning. It uses a small probe placed into the ear canal, and a gentle puff of air released to test the eardrum’s movement. The tympanometer records the results and the audiologist can see if there is any movement or not. Usually a reduction in movement is due to fluid against the eardrum or a problem with middle ear pressure. For more information about how hearing and ear health checks are conducted please see the NHS site.
Wax, Infection, and Perforation
They are also looking for any signs of wax build up in the ear which could be affecting hearing, and discharge from the ear which could be a sign of an infection. Also they are looking for any sign of a perforation in the eardrum. For local patients who require ear wax removal or any other treatment for any ear problem then Audiologist Cheltenham would take note of any findings and proceed with the treatment or refer to another medical professional if necessary.
Symptoms and Medical History
The final part of the examination would be to take note of your symptoms and your medical history. Common symptoms that are linked with ear problems are tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness, balance problems and feeling of fullness in the ears. Your medical history is also important, for example, have you had ear problems in the past or any previous surgeries.
During a routine assessment the Audiologist conducts an ear health check-up which is typically completed within 30 minutes.