Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) testing is a type of hearing test that measures faint sounds produced by the inner ear in response to external sounds.
When hair cells in the inner ear vibrate, they create a soft echo that is measured as the OAE. Individuals with normal hearing produce OAEs, while those with hearing loss greater than 25 to 30 decibels typically do not. This test can also help identify blockages in the outer or middle ear.
What to Expect
- A soft probe is placed in your ear canal.
- The probe puts sounds into your ear and measures the sounds that come back.
- Your audiologist sees the results on a monitor screen.
- Fast, comfortable, and highly accurate.
OAE is especially useful for detecting hearing issues in newborns and is a common part of newborn hearing screening. OAE testing is also used to help detect early damage or hearing loss risk before it is noticeable.
Care and Treatment
If your OAE results are absent or weak, next steps may include:
- A more in-depth hearing evaluation to better understand your hearing health.
- Ongoing monitoring over time to watch for any changes.
- Guidance on protecting your ears from loud noise exposure to prevent further damage.
Take the Next Step
Call 555-555-5555 or contact us online to schedule an appointment at ABC Hearing Aid Center today.