Friday, September 7, 2012

Audiometers Play A Vital Role In Diagnostics

By Kerri Turner


Hearing problems are frequently diagnosed through the use of audiometers. An audiometer is a sophisticated medical device that is capable of determining one's hearing accuracy. Family physicians, ear, nose and throat specialists, and audiologists all use such devices to test patients for hearing abnormalities.

Devices of this type, when used in clinical settings are always specially calibrated. This helps medical professionals to identify hearing loss and other ear disorders quickly and easily. An audiometer provides an avenue through which audiologists and physicians can make a diagnosis that is more detailed and accurate than would be possible if less sophisticated equipment were used.

An ear specialist or physician uses the aforementioned device to complete a series of tests and then reviews the specific results in order to evaluate the person's hearing. The audiometer is calibrated in a special way so that optimum results can be delivered. The findings are measured and the data recorded on a graph, the latter of which is referred to as an audiogram.

The device itself works by creating a vast array of sounds that can be played at various frequencies. They can also be played at numerous volume levels or intensities. Similar frequencies are played a certain volume, which is then lowered a little at a time until the individual can no longer hear the different sounds.

While it is possible to perform the test without headphones, most medical professionals prefer that they are used. This is because they improve the accuracy of the sounds being played for patient. The latter will be instructed to make a response to each sound that he or she is capable of hearing and inform the individual administering the test when the different sounds being played can no longer be heard.

Audiometers are usually designed as individual machines, but digital versions of the device have also been invented. However, a digital audiometer cannot work independently, but must be used with specific computer software. Speech therapists often avail themselves of this type of audiometer when they must monitor their patients' progress.

In traditional medical environments, however, most professionals prefer audiometer machines over digital models. This is because they are calibrated in a certain manner which is thought to be more accurate than their digital counterparts. Such machines are also generally used on people when they are being fitted for hearing aids.

Many children are given hearing tests when they begin attending school. Such tests are usually administered when a child is in kindergarten or first grade. Therefore, if a hearing problem is suspected, the child's parents can be informed and they can take the youngster to an ear, nose and throat specialist or an audiologist for further evaluation, diagnosis and treatment.

With the technological advancements that are constantly being made in the field of medical technology, it is highly probable that the accuracy of audiometers will be improved on a regular basis. They are exceptionally useful tools for audiologists and doctors alike. In addition, the accuracy they provide is beneficial to virtually all individuals who have been diagnosed with hearing problems.




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