Examining The Middle Ear

What is Tympanometry?

Tympanometry is a simple medical test that allows us to measure the function and movement of the eardrum and middle ear. It helps us determine whether your hearing loss can be helped by hearing aids or if another one of our treatments would be more suitable. Even if you aren't experiencing hearing loss, tympanometry can pick up middle ear problems, especially in children.

You might be wondering, what is the middle ear?

To give a quick explanation of the structure of your ear, this is made up of three parts – the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. When there is a problem within the middle ear, this makes it harder for sound to move from your outer ear to your inner ear and then to your brain.

Process

How does Tympanometry work?

Tympanometry is how we test the function of the middle ear and we can use it to determine if your hearing loss is likely to require hearing aids or another treatment path.

We use a highly sophisticated machine which exerts a small (and painless) amount of pressure in your ear as well as a low tone.

With this, we can measure the movement of your eardrum to see whether the middle ear is functioning as we would expect. Abnormal tympanogram results may
suggest:

  • Blockage or fluid build-up in your middle ear (most common).
  • Blocked or clogged eustachian tubes (the tubes that open and close to control air pressure
    inside your ears).
  • Growths in your middle ear.
  • Abnormal movement of the middle ear bones (malleus, incus and stapes)
  • A perforation of the eardrum not observed during otoscopy.
  • A scarred eardrum (from an infection or fluid).
    Tympanometry can also be used to tell if an eardrum is fully healed following an infection or
    perforation.
Usage

Why is Tympanometry used?

Used by Audiologists to detect several things within the middle ear. Such as, the presence of fluid, a middle ear infection or a perforated ear drum. This test is particularly important for children but may also be offered to adults as part of a standard hearing consultation. This test may sometimes help the Audiologist determine the cause of your hearing loss.

Adults and children, who require the medical approval to use hearing aids, will require a tympanometry test. This will be to ensure there is no fluid within your middle ear, as this may indicate hearing aids are not actually necessary and in fact this fluid has been the cause of your hearing loss. If this is the case, your Audiologist will suggest ways to treat this, as fortunately this condition is temporary and treatable.

Medh was very helpful in explaining the process of ear wax removal. Hos was cheerful and very professional, and it really helped to enhance my experience of them. I've now told my dad about what they did to aid me and he is also wanting to give them a try. If your looking for professional services, then this is definitely a place you should look into!
Opinion about London Hearing Specialist from Kim From CSS
Kim From CSS
She was pleasant, effective and yet gentle and cautious. I felt for the most part safe in her hands. There will be a follow up appointment at Milton’s eye care in a few days. Otherwise excellent!!
Opinion about London Hearing Specialist from Virginia Holmes-Landry
Virginia Holmes-Landry
I had an amazing experience. The team provided exceptional customer service and the Ear Specialist demonstrated expert knowledge and genuine care. They took the time to listen, understand my concerns, and explain my condition and treatment options clearly. Their use of advanced technology was impressive. I highly recommend this clinic for anyone in need of a knowledgeable and caring ear specialist.
Opinion about London Hearing Specialist from Mohammed Saleh
Mohammed Saleh
Was able to book an ear wax removal at quick notice. Excellent service. Would highly recommend. My hearing completely went and having this service has allowed me to hear again. Thank you so much
Opinion about London Hearing Specialist from Georgia Savill
Georgia Savill
London Hearing Specialist
4.9
496 (Highly Recommended)
What to expect

What to expect during your Tympanometry appointment

Tympanometry comes as part of our standard hearing consultation. Once you're seated and comfortable, we'll place the device inside your ear. This isn't an uncomfortable experience, in fact, it just feels like an earplug.

The tool then gets to work on causing the air pressure in your ear canal to change, a sensation which is often compared to that of taking-off and landing in a plane. Whilst this pressure is changing, the device will measure and record your eardrum's movement, so it's important that you're quiet and still during the test.

During the test your Audiologist will see a graph on a device called a Tympanogram. This device will display the results of your middle ear test. Highlighting any problems within the middle ear.
Where we are

Find Our Specialised Audiology Clinics

Explore our seven dedicated clinics, each uniquely equipped to provide exceptional, individualized audiology care tailored to meet your hearing and balance needs.

Visit London Hearing Specialist at Camden clinic
Camden Contact Lens Centre,
32-36 Camden High Street,
Camden, NW1 0JH
Visit London Hearing Specialist at Hampstead clinic
Miltons Eyecare,
38 Heath Street,
Hampstead, NW3 6TE
Visit London Hearing Specialist at Marylebone clinic
Madesil Pharmacy,
20, Marylebone High Street,
Marylebone, W1U 4PB
Visit London Hearing Specialist at Old Street clinic
193 Whitecross Street
London
EC1Y 8QP
Visit London Hearing Specialist at Potters Bar clinic
Questmoor Pharmacy,
96 High Street,
Potters Bar, EN6 5AT
Visit London Hearing Specialist at Ware clinic
Eastware Pharmacy,
Burgage Lane,
Ware, SG12 9FT
Visit London Hearing Specialist at Hatfield clinic
The Oak House Studios & Therapies
Hatfield House, Church Street
Hatfield, AL9 5AR