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
Pure Tone Audiometry Testing in the Philippines
What Is Pure Tone Audiometry?
Pure tone audiometry (PTA) is the most common hearing test used to evaluate a person's hearing ability. It measures how well a person can hear different frequencies or pitches of sound. This type of audiometry does not consider speech, but rather focuses on the detection and measurement of tones at various frequencies.
What Is It Used For?
PTA is used to identify the presence and degree of hearing loss, as well as determine the type of hearing loss a person may have. It can also help determine if there are any issues with the middle ear, such as damage to the eardrum or the small bones in the middle ear.
In addition to diagnosing hearing loss, PTA is also used for hearing screenings. This is especially important for newborns and children, as early detection of hearing loss can greatly improve their language and communication development.
What to Expect During the Procedure?
During a PTA test, the individual will sit in a soundproof booth or room. The audiologist or hearing specialist will then give instructions on how to respond to the tones played through headphones. The person being tested will press a button or raise their hand whenever they hear a tone.
The test begins with low-frequency tones and gradually increases to higher frequencies. Each ear is tested separately to determine the hearing sensitivity in each ear.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
A pure tone audiometry test in the Philippines typically takes around 20-30 minutes to complete. However, the exact time may vary depending on the individual's response time and any additional tests that may be needed.
In some cases, a comprehensive hearing evaluation may include other tests in addition to PTA, which can increase the overall duration of the procedure. It is best to consult with an audiologist or hearing specialist to get a more accurate estimate of the time needed for your specific situation.
Who Should Be Taking This Test?
Anyone who is experiencing hearing difficulties or suspects they may have a hearing loss should consider taking a pure tone audiometry test. This includes individuals of all ages, from newborns to older adults.
In addition, certain groups of people may be more at risk for developing hearing loss and should undergo regular PTA screenings. These include individuals with a family history of hearing loss, those who have been exposed to loud noise, and older adults.
How Accurate Is It?
Pure tone audiometry is a highly accurate and reliable test for assessing hearing ability. However, the accuracy of the results may depend on several factors such as the individual's cooperation and attentiveness during the test, the quality of equipment used, and any external factors that may affect the test environment.
Additionally, it is important to note that PTA is just one part of a comprehensive hearing evaluation and should be interpreted in conjunction with other tests and assessments. It is always best to consult with an audiologist or hearing specialist for an accurate interpretation of your results.