Hearing plays a very vital role in an individual’s communication, development, and overall quality of life. If there is a hearing issue, especially in newborns, infants and those who cannot communicate their symptoms in clear terms, early detection is essential. One efficient and secure way to assess hearing functions is OAE (Otoacoustic Emissions) testing.
If you are looking to receive an OAE test in Kolkata, here, in this post, we will have a detailed discussion on what this testing is, how it works, and what are the advantages of this diagnosis process. Read on for further insights.
What is OAE Testing?
OAE testing is a hearing diagnosis that measures sounds (which are called otoacaustic emissions) generated by the inner ear known as cochlea. This test is non-invasive and can be conducted within a few minutes. An audiologist conducts this diagnosis by inserting a soft, tiny probe into the ear canal. The process emits sounds and the audiologist records the ear’s response. Through this test, the audiologist learns whether the inner ear is functioning properly.
This test is primarily conducted as a screening tool for newborns, infants, young children, and adults who cannot respond to conventional hearing tests.
How an OAT Test is Conducted
OAE testing is a quick and painless process which is completed within a couple of minutes. Here are the primary steps involved in the diagnosis:
Preparation
The patient, who is usually a child or baby, sleeps or rests quietly in a calm environment.
Placement of the Probe
An audiologist gently inserts a small probe containing a speaker and microphone into the ear canal.
Emission of Sound
The speaker releases a series of tones and clicks into the ear.
Measuring Response
The microphone detects the inner ear’s response to the sound.
Analysis
A healthy ear with normal hearing abilities will respond to the sound. If it does not, the audiologist will recommend further testing to confirm hearing loss or other ear related issues.
The test can be conducted without any behavioral response from the patient. This makes it an ideal test for individuals who cannot actively participate in traditional hearing examinations.
Advantages of OAE Testing
If you are looking to receive an OAE test in Kolkata, here are primary advantages of such a test:
Non- Invasive Diagnosis
An OAE test is fully non-invasive. It does not involve any needles, sedatives, or any discomfort. Only a miniature probe (a small device placed in the ear canal during a hearing test) is used which does not cause any pain. Such simplicity makes this test suitable even for newborns.
Can Be Conducted within a Quick Time
One of the biggest advantages of an OAE test is that it can be completed within a quick time. The test can be conducted on both ears giving less than 5 minutes to each ear. This time efficiency allows hospitals and clinics to diagnose a large number of patients within a quick time.
Offers Early Detection of Hearing Loss
Detection of hearing loss at an early stage, especially in newborns is essential as hearing is crucial for language development and cognitive growth. OAE diagnosis helps identify cochlear issues developed right after the birth of a baby. With the help of this test, early intervention and treatment is possible.
Affordable Diagnosis
As an OAE test requires minimal time and equipment, it is a low cost diagnosis process for widespread hearing issues. Many hospitals even conduct a hearing assessment as a standard practice before a newborn leaves the hospital.
Suitable for All Age Groups
Although commonly used on newborns and infants, OAE testing is suitable for individuals of all ages. This test is widely used to assess the hearing abilities of patients who are in critical care, individuals with disabilities, or patients receiving ototoxic medicine treatments.
Advantages of OAE Testing
If you are looking to receive a quality OAE test in Kolkata for yourself or your newborn, Happy Ears is the name to trust. We are a reputed hearing clinic specializing in offering personalized diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of hearing concerns.
When you visit us, our friendly and experienced audiologist will diagnose you in a comfortable environment and prescribe you a treatment method that best suits your condition. Connect with us today with any queries or for an appointment.
