How to Test Your Hearing at Home

Hearing is the ability to activate the auditory organs and receive spoken information. Excessive noise exposure, prolonged residence in high-noise environments, or inappropriate medication use can easily cause hearing damage. Common methods for assessing hearing include speech audiometry or self-testing using readily available household equipment. Specific approaches are as follows:

1. Speech Audiometry: Select a quiet room and test each ear separately by having another person speak to you. If the speaker must raise their voice significantly—or if speech remains unclear—this may indicate hearing impairment.

2. Television Volume Assessment: Under normal conditions, the TV volume should not exceed 60% of its maximum output. For example, if the TV’s maximum volume is 50, the upper limit of a comfortable listening level would be 50 × 60% = 30. If you need to increase the volume above 30 to hear clearly, this suggests possible hearing loss.

3. Watch-Tick Test: Hold a ticking watch near each ear alternately and compare the loudness of the ticking sound. If one ear hears the ticking clearly while the other perceives only faint or no sound, this may indicate hearing impairment.

Self-assessment of hearing has inherent limitations. Individuals with concerns about their hearing are advised to promptly consult an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) at a reputable hospital.