Tympanometry
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Tympanometry is a quick and painless test that checks how well your middle ear is working. It measures how your eardrum moves when a small amount of air pressure and sound are applied. The test helps find problems like fluid behind the eardrum, a hole in the eardrum, or issues with the tiny bones in the middle ear.
Key facts
- Tympanometry is not a hearing test, but it helps find the cause of hearing loss.
- The test takes only a few minutes and is usually done in a doctor's office or audiology clinic.
- It is safe for people of all ages, including babies and older adults.
Yes, tympanometry is a common test used by audiologists and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors to check middle ear health. It is often part of a routine hearing evaluation.
Tympanometry is performed on anyone who may have a middle ear problem. It is especially useful for children who have frequent ear infections, adults with hearing loss or ear pain, and older adults who may have age-related changes in the ear.