Otoacoustic Emissions Testing at CMC Dubai

Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing  at CMC Dubai measures sounds that are produced by the inner ear in response to stimuli. These sounds, called otoacoustic emissions, can be detected using a small probe that is placed in the ear canal.

During the test, a series of sounds are played through the probe and into the ear canal. As the sounds enter the ear, they cause the hair cells in the cochlea to vibrate. These vibrations create a sound wave that travels back through the middle ear and out of the ear canal. The probe then picks up this sound wave and records it, producing an otoacoustic emission.

OAE testing can be used to detect problems with the cochlea, such as hearing loss caused by damage to the hair cells. It can also help identify problems with the auditory nerve, as well as certain types of congenital hearing loss.

OAE testing is a quick, painless, and non-invasive test that can be performed on people of all ages, including infants and young children. It is often used as a screening tool for hearing problems in newborns and young children, as well as for monitoring changes in hearing over time. OAE testing is usually performed by an audiologist or other hearing healthcare professional.

There are several types of otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing that can be performed, depending on the specific needs of the individual being tested.

Here are some of the most common types:

1. Transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs): This test measures the emissions that are produced in response to a brief click or tone that is played into the ear. TEOAEs are often used to screen for hearing problems in newborns and young children.
2. Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs): This test measures the emissions that are produced in response to two tones that are played simultaneously into the ear. DPOAEs are often used to detect mild to moderate hearing loss in adults.
3. Stimulus frequency otoacoustic emissions (SFOAEs): This test measures the emissions that are produced in response to a pure tone that is played into the ear at a specific frequency. SFOAEs can be used to detect certain types of hearing loss, such as those caused by noise exposure.

The specific type of OAE testing that is performed will depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and the suspected cause of their hearing problems. Our audiologist can help you to  determine which type of OAE testing is right for you.