An otoacoustic emission (OAE) is a very soft sound generated by the inner ear. It can occur spontaneously or in response to a sound presented during testing. A healthy inner ear typically produces OAEs, making this test a reliable indicator of cochlear function. OAE testing is available as part of the hearing assessment services offered at our Toronto audiology clinic.
What Is OAE Testing and How Does It Work?
OAE testing measures whether the cochlea, the organ responsible for hearing, is generating the expected responses to sound. The test is non-invasive and typically takes only a few minutes per ear. A small spongy tip is placed in the ear canal, tones of various pitches are played, and the responses are recorded and analyzed by computer.
OAE testing does not measure the full degree of hearing loss, but it is a valuable tool for assessing cochlear health. It is used alongside not instead of standard behavioural hearing tests.
Who Benefits from OAE Testing?
OAE testing is commonly used in a range of clinical situations:
- Infant hearing screening: Newborns who did not pass their hospital screening, or who did not receive one at birth, can be tested at our clinic with minimal wait time.
- Children unable to complete standard tests: OAE testing provides a reliable alternative for younger children or those with developmental considerations.
- Supplementing adult hearing assessments: OAE results add an additional layer of information alongside a standard hearing test for adults.
OAE Testing for Monitoring Hearing Health Over Time
For those regularly exposed to loud environments at work or during recreational activities, OAE testing can serve as an early warning system. Pairing monitoring with custom hearing protection is one of the most effective ways to prevent noise-induced hearing damage before it affects your daily life. If monitoring reveals changes, it may also be worth reading about how to protect your hearing at a concert. The same noise exposure principles apply to any loud environment and assess for tinnitus, which can develop alongside noise-related hearing changes.