Can You Pass a Hearing Test but still Have Problems Hearing?

Many people assume you either pass or fail a hearing test, but this isn’t necessarily true. When an audiologist assesses your hearing function, they are evaluating what pitch and tone you can hear, as well as the level of decibels you are able to hear. 

An audiogram is commonly used to test hearing function. This type of hearing test enables audiologists to assess your hearing function and determine whether you have hearing loss. If hearing loss is detected, an audiogram will also enable your audiologist to identify what type of hearing loss you experience and the severity of your hearing loss. 

As there is no objective level of good hearing function, the results of your audiogram won’t be assessed in terms of passing or failing. Instead, they will give a detailed medical insight into your hearing function. 

Despite this, some people find that they perform well on a hearing test and still experience hearing loss or hearing-related issues. Indeed, the results of your audiogram may place your hearing function above average, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you don’t have hearing problems. 

Sometimes known as hidden hearing loss, certain hearing problems aren’t always picked up by an audiogram. This means some people will perform well or pass a hearing test while still experiencing problems with hearing.

What is hidden hearing loss?

Hearing loss can be caused by a number of factors, such as:

• Increasing age
• Exposure to loud noises
• Injuries to the ear
• Viral infections

Depending on the cause, hearing problems can present in various different ways. Age-related hearing loss is the most common issue and typically occurs because the tiny hair cells within the ear sustain wear and tear as we get older. When this happens, hearing function is affected, and you may experience hearing loss. Conversely, hearing loss which occurs due to a viral infection may become apparent because the virus has affected the functioning of the cochlea or blood vessels in the ear.

Although audiograms are considered the gold standard of hearing tests, they won’t necessarily highlight all types of hearing loss. In some cases, hearing problems may persist, even when a patient performs well when testing in an office or clinic environment. 

Upon an initial assessment, an individual’s hearing function may appear to be average or above average, yet they may experience hearing loss which is hidden when an audiogram is carried out. 

Why don’t audiograms identify all types of hearing problems?

Audiograms do identify the majority of hearing issues and are an effective way for audiologists to assess hearing function. In fact, a comprehensive hearing assessment should always include an audiogram. However, further tests should also be undertaken if an individual reports experiencing hearing problems despite performing well on an audiogram. 

When audiograms are undertaken, the patient is typically assessed in a quiet room, using headphones. Leading researchers believe the brain can amplify sounds in certain environments, thus enabling the individual to present with good hearing function in particular surroundings. In a quiet room, while using headphones, for example, the brain’s ability to compensate for reduced hearing function may mask the patient’s hearing loss. 

Despite receiving a clean bill of health, the individual will revert to experiencing hearing problems when they are in a different environment, such as a noisy office or at a loud concert. 

How is hidden hearing loss treated? 

If you are experiencing hearing loss, it’s important to consult an audiologist. As well as carrying out an audiogram, your audiologist will be able to undertake a variety of other tests to help identify hearing problems. No matter what the cause or specific symptoms of your hearing problems, an audiologist will be able to provide an accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, your audiologist can discuss a range of treatment options with you and provide vital information and advice regarding your hearing. 

For patients who experience hearing loss in certain environments, for example, responsive hearing aids may be a viable option. With the ability to automatically adjust their settings based on the external environment, the latest hearing devices offer an intuitive and comfortable experience for wearers, particularly those who experience different levels of hearing function in varying environments. 

Should you see an audiologist? 

An audiologist specializes in hearing problems, so they should be your first port of call if you notice any issues with your hearing function. To learn more or to book an appointment today, contact Hearing Aid Consultants of North Mississippi call today at (662) 234-1337.