Diagnosis of Deafness
Diagnosis of deafness involves a combination of clinical evaluation, hearing tests, and imaging studies. The goal is to determine the type, degree, and cause of hearing loss. Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan and ensuring the individual receives the support they need. In both children and adults, early diagnosis of deafness can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
Initial Assessment
Begins with a medical history and discussion of symptoms, including when hearing issues began, how quickly they progressed, and whether one or both ears are affected
The doctor may ask about exposure to loud noise, infections, trauma, or family history of hearing problems
Physical Examination
A visual inspection of the ear canal and eardrum using an otoscope may reveal signs of infection, wax build-up, or structural damage
In some cases, earwax blockage may be a simple, reversible cause of hearing loss
Hearing Tests
The most important part of diagnosing deafness is audiological testing, usually conducted by an audiologist:
Pure-tone audiometry: Measures the faintest tones a person can hear at various frequencies
Speech audiometry: Assesses the ability to hear and repeat spoken words
Tympanometry: Evaluates the movement of the eardrum and middle ear pressure
Otoacoustic emissions (OAE): Used to check inner ear function, especially in newborns
Auditory brainstem response (ABR): Tests the hearing nerve pathways and is commonly used in infants or when more detailed evaluation is needed
These tests help categorise hearing loss as conductive, sensorineural, or mixed, and determine its severity.
Imaging and Laboratory Tests | Diagnosis of Deafness
If a structural issue or neurological cause is suspected, further tests may include:
CT scan or MRI to detect tumours, malformations, or damage in the auditory pathway
Genetic testing in cases of congenital or progressive hearing loss
Blood tests to identify infections, autoimmune conditions, or vitamin deficiencies that may contribute to hearing problems
Newborn and School Screening
Many countries now include routine hearing screening as part of newborn health checks
School-aged children may undergo regular hearing tests to ensure early intervention
In conclusion, diagnosis of deafness combines history-taking, physical examination, and specialised hearing tests. Early and accurate identification of hearing loss allows for prompt treatment and improves educational, social, and occupational outcomes.
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