Audiometry is a comprehensive test used to evaluate an individual's ability to hear various sounds, frequencies, and pitches. This test is critical for diagnosing hearing loss, determining its type and severity, and guiding appropriate treatment options. The process involves the use of an audiometer, which generates sounds at different volumes and frequencies through headphones or speakers. The individual being tested responds to the sounds, often by pressing a button or raising a hand, allowing the audiologist to plot an audiogram that visualizes the person's hearing thresholds across various frequencies. This information is crucial for understanding the extent of hearing impairment and tailoring interventions such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other auditory assistance devices.

Audiometry tests are typically conducted in a soundproof room to ensure accurate results. There are several types of audiometry, including pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and bone conduction testing. Pure-tone audiometry measures the faintest tones a person can hear at selected pitches, while speech audiometry assesses how well a person can understand speech at different volumes. Bone conduction testing, on the other hand, evaluates the function of the inner ear by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Together, these tests provide a comprehensive assessment of auditory function, helping healthcare professionals diagnose conditions such as sensorineural, conductive, or mixed hearing loss, and guiding the most effective treatment strategies.