The Medical City ENT Center
2/F Podium Bldg.
Contact Numbers
(632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 local 6251
(632) 689-8201 (direct line)
Open daily from 8:00AM to 5:00PM except Sundays and Holidays
All procedures are by appointment only.
PATIENT SERVICES / DIAGNOSIS CENTER
Hearing Screening Test and Evaluation in the Philippines
What are Hearing Screenings?
Hearing screenings are tests that are used to assess a person's ability to hear. They are often performed on infants, children, and adults to identify any hearing loss or potential hearing problems. These screenings can be done by trained professionals such as audiologists, speech-language pathologists, or pediatricians.
There are two main types of hearing screenings—pure tone audiometry and otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing. Pure tone audiometry involves playing a series of tones at different frequencies and volumes to determine a person's hearing threshold. OAE testing, on the other hand, measures the response of the inner ear to sound by placing a small probe in the ear canal.
Who Should Get Hearing Screenings?
A hearing screening in the Philippines are recommended for individuals of all ages, but they are especially important for infants and young children. Early detection and intervention for hearing loss can significantly improve a child's speech and language development, academic performance, and overall quality of life.
In addition to infants and children, adults should also consider getting regular hearing screenings. This is particularly important for those who have a family history of hearing loss, work in noise-exposed environments, or have been exposed to loud noises regularly.
What Types of Issues Do Hearing Tests Identify?
Hearing screenings can identify a range of issues related to hearing loss and potential hearing problems. These include:
- Conductive hearing loss: This type of hearing loss is caused by issues in the outer or middle ear, such as wax buildup, fluid in the ear, or damage to the eardrum.
- Sensorineural hearing loss: This type of hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve and is often permanent.
- Mixed hearing loss: This type of hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
- Auditory processing disorder (APD): This condition affects how the brain processes sounds, making it difficult to understand speech and other auditory information.
- Tinnitus: This is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears that is often a symptom of an underlying hearing problem.
How Long Do Hearing Tests Take?
The duration of a hearing test in the Philippines can vary depending on the type of screening being performed and the individual's cooperation. On average, a hearing test can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. However, if additional testing or follow-up appointments are needed, it may take longer.
It is important for individuals to remain still and quiet during the test in order to get accurate results. If the individual being tested is a child, it may be helpful to bring along toys or activities to keep them occupied and calm during the process.
How Often Should I Get My Hearing Checked?
It is recommended to get a hearing screening in the Philippines at least once every ten years until the age of 50, and then every three years after that. However, if you have any concerns about your hearing or notice any changes in your ability to hear, it is important to get tested as soon as possible.
Additionally, certain factors may require more frequent screenings. These include working in a noise-exposed environment, having a family history of hearing loss, or experiencing frequent exposure to loud noises. It is important to discuss your individual risk factors with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate testing schedule for you.