Audiometry

Hearing is very important in our everyday lives. Pilots and others who work around aircraft are exposed to various frequencies of loud noise over long periods of time. For this reason, regular hearing testing is important to detect hearing loss in its early stages. Unfortunately, hearing loss is not reversible, however, we can control the exposure to noise. If it is found that hearing loss is occurring one needs to evaluate the cause and ensure that all that is possible is done to reduce further loss.

Audiometry is the measurement of hearing capability. Several methods of hearing testing are available. The most commonly used is pure tone testing. For this test, a patient wears high-quality earphones and is asked to indicate if they can hear sounds at a specific frequency and loudness, or decibels. The ears are tested separately. The results are recorded on an audiogram. The allows the health professional to graphically evaluate the hearing for each ear over various frequencies. If hearing loss is detected, further testing may be indicated.

Currently, we ask that all hearing testing be performed by a licensed audiologist of your choice. It is best to have a formal hearing test done early especially if you are interested in a commercial pilot career. This audiogram will act as a baseline in the case there is a concern for the loss of hearing later on. Please ask the audiology clinic to provide you with a copy of the audiogram report to bring to your medical. There is usually a small fee for the examination and report.

Not all pilots require hearing testing. It depends on your age, the category of certification applied for and past medical history. If you have a copy of a previous audiogram, please bring it with you to your appointment. It helps determine if there are changes from previous and if hearing loss is old or new.