What is Speech Audiometry?
Speech audiometry is a critical hearing assessment that evaluates how well an individual can detect and understand speech. This test is a part of hearing tests and falls under screening tests and examinations in preventive care.
Purpose of Speech Audiometry
The primary purpose of speech audiometry is to assess the clarity and comprehension of speech at various volumes. It helps identify hearing impairments and determines appropriate intervention methods, such as hearing aids or further diagnostic evaluations.
Types of Speech Audiometry
There are two main types of speech audiometry:
- Speech Reception Threshold (SRT): This test measures the lowest volume at which a person can correctly identify simple words.
- Word Recognition Score (WRS): In this test, individuals repeat words presented at a comfortable volume to assess clarity and understanding.
Procedure
During the test, the individual wears headphones. Words or phrases are played at varying volumes, and the person's responses are recorded. This information helps audiologists tailor treatment options to meet specific auditory needs.
Conclusion
Overall, speech audiometry is an essential tool in preventive care, enabling early detection and management of hearing loss to improve communication and quality of life.