Tuesday, May 6, 2014

General Information To Know On Audiometers

By Essie Osborn


Special devices are used in the modern day in order to check hearings loss. These units are called audiometers and they are often seen at audiology offices and the facilities of ear, nose and throat doctors. They feature embedded hardware that connects to headphones, as well as a test button that is used for control purposes and can be operated through most computers.

These are sometimes used with bone vibrators to assess conductive hearing units. There are software and hardware meters available, as well as the many models that fit under those categories. Meters are designed to be able to attach to computers directly ad can be used from home. However, the accuracy level of at-home test results is not usually as high because there is no standard for calibration.

Generally speaking, the clinical devices are known to produce the most accurate of results. These are also more expensive than most traditional software kinds. Often they are employed in professional places, such as research facilities, hospitals, audiology centers and other places in which accuracy and precision of results is the ultimate priority.

The devices are primarily used for testing one's ability to hear. It is crucial that these be properly calibrated on a regular basis to ensure the level featured on the display fits with the stimulus that the test subject is exposed to. The right calibration is very important to getting correct measurements that are consistent, no matter where the test is given. Likewise, the results must be reliable because they are used to characterize the type and amount of loss. Calibration may be done with an Audiometric Calibration System, also called ACS, or ESS, an Ear Simulator System.

Audiometry is a term derived from Latin. Generally it is defined as measuring the ability of one to hear. This field is focused on checking hearing ability at varying levels. Still, the science involved also tracks ability of one to distinguish between various sounds, intensities and pitches. These devices can measure Otoacoustic emissions and even acoustic reflex. The results from tests are beneficial to physicians during the diagnostic process.

Meters are sold through many retailers. Prices will differ depending on the type. Models that offer better results are usually more complex and therefore more costly. These are usually only seen in professional settings. There are also versions designed for at-home use.

There are many factors that can contribute to hearing loss. This loss might be deemed permanent or temporary, and total or partial. Either way, the issue is related to a decrease in sensitivity to sounds that are usually heard. The degree of loss is usually determined by analyzing the increase in volume required before sound is detected.

When it comes to these devices, the most important thing is calibration. There are numerous makes and models of this meter that can be used, even those designed specifically for use at home. The highest accuracy is expected from units used in professional settings. However, proper calibration can ensure consistent and accurate results from nearly any device. There are many people who suffer with hearing loss, which can be temporary or permanent, and total or partial.




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