Pure Tone Audiometry

Service Description

Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) is the most widely used and reliable test to evaluate hearing sensitivity across different frequencies. It is considered the gold standard in audiological assessment because it provides precise information about the softest sounds a person can hear at varying pitches, from low to high. During the test, the patient wears headphones and listens to a series of pure tones presented at different frequencies and intensities. Each time the patient hears a sound, they indicate it by pressing a button or raising a hand. The responses are recorded to create an audiogram—a visual chart that maps hearing thresholds for each ear. This chart helps the audiologist determine the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss, whether it is conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. PTA is simple, non‑invasive, and suitable for patients of all ages, making it a cornerstone in both diagnostic and rehabilitative audiology. Beyond identifying hearing loss, the test guides decisions about medical treatment, hearing aid fitting, or cochlear implant candidacy. It also plays a vital role in monitoring changes in hearing over time, ensuring that interventions remain effective and tailored to the patient’s needs. For children, PTA can be adapted into play audiometry, turning the test into a game to encourage accurate responses. For elderly patients, it provides reassurance and clarity about communication difficulties, helping families understand the impact of hearing loss. By combining technical accuracy with patient‑friendly procedures, Pure Tone Audiometry empowers individuals and clinicians alike with clear, actionable insights into hearing health.