Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs) Test
Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) are sounds that the inner ear produces when it responds to a stimulus. The cochlea, or inner ear, contains hair cells that vibrate in response to sound, creating a nearly inaudible sound that echoes back into the middle ear and is transmitted to the external ear canal. This sound can then be recorded using an OAE test, which is a simple way to screen for hearing loss and assess the health of the inner ear.
OAE Test: What to Expect
An OAE test is a quick and painless way to check out how well your inner ear functions. It usually takes 15 to 20 minutes to complete and is used for babies. Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect:
During an OAE test, a small earphone is placed in the ear canal and plays several tones to stimulate the cochlea. The earphone then measures the "echoes" that the cochlea releases in response to the sounds.
OAEs can be used to screen infants and other special populations. When testing a newborn, it's usually best to be calm, relatively quiet, and ideally asleep. The ear canal can be straightened out by gently pulling down and back on the pinna, and warming the ear tips before insertion can help keep the baby calm.
Pathologic problems in the outer ear, such as stenosis, external otitis, cysts, or abnormal middle ear pressure, can cause OAEs to be absent.
What we offer
Why OAE Test Necessary?
Our OAEs test in Lahore provides valuable information about the health of your inner ear or cochlea. The test is particularly useful for babies, adults, and infants.
FAQs
How accurate is the OAE test?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) gov. study tells us the OAE test is highly accurate and most reliable. With a sensitivity of 66.7% and a specificity of 98.8%.
Are there any risks or side effects of the OAE test?
The OAE test is completely safe and has no known risks or side effects. It does not involve radiation, needles, or any invasive procedures.
Can the OAE test diagnose all types of hearing loss?
No, the OAE test primarily evaluates the function of the cochlea (inner ear). It cannot detect hearing loss due to problems in the middle ear, auditory nerve, or brain. Additional hearing tests may be necessary for a comprehensive diagnosis.
