The standard hearing test that measures the softest sound you can hear at each pitch, in each ear — the starting point for almost every hearing evaluation.
A Pure Tone Audiogram (PTA) measures how well you hear tones of different pitches, from low frequencies to high frequencies, played through headphones. It is the test most people picture when they think of a "hearing test."
The test checks both air conduction (sound through headphones) and bone conduction (sound through a small vibrator behind the ear), which together help identify not just how much hearing is affected, but where in the hearing pathway the cause may lie.
PTA is used across all ages — from routine screening and occupational checks to investigating symptoms like tinnitus, sudden hearing change, or monitoring hearing aid benefit over time.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Typically 15–30 minutes for both ears |
| Preparation | No special preparation; bring any previous audiogram reports for comparison |
| What Happens | Headphones and a bone conduction vibrator deliver tones at varying pitch and loudness; you signal each time you hear a sound |
| Who It's For | Anyone with hearing difficulty, tinnitus, noise exposure, or needing a hearing aid check or occupational screening |
A PTA is one of the most commonly ordered tests in audiology, since it applies to almost any situation where hearing needs to be checked or tracked.
Signs to Watch For
| Other Reasons for Referral
|
Calibrated Testing EquipmentAudiometers are regularly calibrated, so results are accurate and comparable over time. | Complete Ear AssessmentPTA can be combined with tympanometry in the same visit for a fuller picture of your hearing. | |
Clear Result ExplanationYour audiogram is reviewed with you immediately, in plain language, with next steps if needed. | Care Across AgesTesting is suited to children from around age 4–5 through to senior citizens. | |
No. You simply listen to tones through headphones and respond when you hear them. There is no discomfort involved.
A referral isn't always required for a routine hearing check. If your symptoms need clinical evaluation first, our team can arrange an ENT consultation alongside the test.
Yes, from around age 4–5 once a child can reliably respond to sounds. Younger children are usually assessed with objective tests like OAE or BERA instead.
Yes. Your audiogram is generated and explained to you immediately after testing.
Get a clear, complete picture of your hearing at Apollo Clinic, Shyamnagar.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is general and is not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified audiologist or ENT specialist. Test results should always be interpreted by a professional in the context of your full clinical picture. All procedures are performed after clinical assessment and informed consent.
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