Hearing loss can be a gradual process, and many people may not even realize they are experiencing it. This is known as hidden hearing loss, and it affects millions of people worldwide.

The good news is that there are ways to detect hidden hearing loss early on and prevent further damage. One such way is by taking a sound test. Here’s everything you need to know about hidden hearing loss and how to take a sound test to detect it.

What is Hidden Hearing Loss?

Hidden hearing loss, also known as auditory synaptopathy, is a type of hearing loss that affects the connection between the inner ear and the brain.

This condition is characterized by difficulty hearing in noisy environments, hearing voices but not being able to understand them, and a reduced ability to follow conversations. Unlike other types of hearing loss, which may be detected through a standard hearing test, hidden hearing loss can go undetected.

The main cause of hidden hearing loss is exposure to loud noise. Repeated exposure to loud noise can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for translating sound waves into electrical signals.

Over time, this damage can reduce the number of synapses, or connections, between the hair cells and the auditory nerve. These synapses are essential for transmitting sound signals to the brain, and a reduction in their number can lead to hidden hearing loss.

Why Should You Take a Sound Test?

Hidden hearing loss often goes undetected because it is not always apparent in a standard hearing test.

While a typical hearing test measures a person’s ability to detect sounds at different frequencies and volumes, it may not accurately reflect their ability to understand speech in noisy environments. A sound test, on the other hand, is designed to measure a person’s ability to understand speech in varying levels of background noise.

By taking a sound test, you can determine if you have hidden hearing loss and take steps to prevent further damage.

Early detection is key to preventing hearing loss from becoming more severe, and regular sound tests can help you monitor your hearing and catch any changes early on.

How to Take a Sound Test

There are several ways to take a sound test, including at-home tests and tests administered by a hearing healthcare professional. Here’s a breakdown of each method:.

At-Home Sound Tests

At-home sound tests are convenient and easy to take. These tests typically involve listening to speech and background noise through headphones and answering questions or repeating back what you’ve heard.

Here are a few examples of at-home sound tests:.

The Hearing Quiz

The Hearing Quiz is a free online test that measures a person’s ability to understand speech in noisy environments. The test takes roughly 10 minutes to complete and provides immediate results.

To take the quiz, you’ll need a pair of headphones and a quiet environment.

The Mimi Hearing Test

The Mimi Hearing Test is a free app that measures a person’s ability to hear different frequencies. The test takes roughly six minutes to complete and provides personalized results based on age, gender, and other factors.

To take the test, you’ll need a pair of headphones and a quiet environment.

Tests Administered by a Hearing Healthcare Professional

If you suspect you may have hidden hearing loss or have noticed a decline in your hearing, it’s best to see a hearing healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.

These professionals can administer a sound test along with other tests to determine the type and severity of your hearing loss. They can also recommend treatment options to help improve your hearing. Here are a few common tests a hearing healthcare professional may use to evaluate your hearing:.

Pure-Tone Audiometry

Pure-tone audiometry is a standard hearing test that measures a person’s ability to hear different frequencies and volumes. During the test, the tester will play different tones at varying volumes and ask you to indicate when you can hear them.

This test can detect hearing loss in one or both ears and is useful for identifying the type and severity of hearing loss.

Speech Audiometry

Speech audiometry measures a person’s ability to understand speech in various levels of background noise. During the test, the tester will play recorded speech in the presence of background noise and ask you to repeat back what you’ve heard.

This test is useful for identifying hearing loss in noisy environments, such as restaurants or social gatherings.

Preventing Hidden Hearing Loss

While hidden hearing loss can be caused by exposure to loud noise, there are several steps you can take to prevent further damage. Here are a few tips:.

Wear Ear Protection

If you work in a noisy environment or are exposed to loud noise regularly, wear ear protection such as earplugs or earmuffs. This will help reduce the level of noise you’re exposed to and protect your hearing.

Avoid Loud Noise

Avoid exposure to loud noise when possible. If you’re attending a concert or using power tools, move away from the noise source or take frequent breaks to give your ears a rest.

Turn Down the Volume

When listening to music or watching television, turn down the volume to a lower level. This will help reduce the risk of damage to your hearing.

Take Breaks

If you’re working in a noisy environment, take breaks frequently to give your ears a rest. This will help reduce the cumulative effect of noise exposure on your hearing.

Conclusion

Hidden hearing loss can be a challenging condition to detect, but with the help of sound tests and hearing healthcare professionals, it’s possible to catch it early on and prevent further damage.

Consider taking a sound test to evaluate your hearing and take steps to protect it. Remember to take care of your hearing, and it will take care of you.