If your child is suffering from hearing related troubles, it is important to understand the contrast between the two vital hearing tests: ASSR and ABR. But don’t worry—expert audiologists from the best hearing aids clinic, Hearing Plus, explain everything about ASSR and ABR hearing tests.
Read on to know more:
What are ASSR and ABR Hearing Tests?
Before getting into the differences, let’s delve into the basics first:
ABR (Auditory Brainstem Response): The ABR diagnostic test examines the electrical activity of the auditory nerve and its response to auditory stimuli. It identifies the integrity of the auditory pathways, especially for newborns and children.
ASSR (Auditory Steady-State Response): On the other hand, ASSR tests check the auditory system’s response to specific frequencies at a constant amplitude and frequency. This test assesses hearing sensitivity, particularly in patients unable to undergo traditional behavioural testing.
The fundamental contrast between ABR and ASSR hearing tests
Here are the most fundamental differences between ABR and ASSR hearing tests.
- Stimulus Frequency: ABR uses a wide range of stimuli, while ASSR focuses on specific frequencies from 500 Hz to 4000 Hz.
- Testing Methodology: ABR measures neural responses, while ASSR analyzes steady-state auditory stimuli.
- Diagnostic Capabilities: ABR detects neuropathy and brainstem lesions, while ASSR provides precise frequency-specific information about hearing loss.
- Testing Time: ABR, being a less time-consuming test, is mostly recommended for newborns and children, while ASSR may need more time for testing due to its complexity, though technology advancements have made it more convenient.
Treatment Plans available after ABR and ASSR hearing tests
After ABR and ASSR hearing tests, treatment plans are based on the diagnostic findings. These may include fitting hearing aids to address specific hearing loss, recommending auditory rehabilitation programs, suggesting surgical interventions for conditions like auditory neuropathy or providing support to manage any associated challenges.
How do you choose the proper diagnostic test?
When selecting the appropriate hearing test, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It depends on multiple factors, including the patient’s age, cognitive abilities and auditory concerns. Whether it’s ABR or ASSR, audiologists suggest parents get accurate diagnosis and treatment for their child after understanding everything about these tests.
Understanding everything about hearing tests, particularly the differences between ASSR and ABR, initially seems intimidating. With the guidance of expert audiologists from the best hearing aids clinic, Hearing Plus, parents can easily understand the fundamental contrast between these tests. This will eventually help them to make informed decisions about their child’s auditory health. Whether ABR’s wide-ranging stimulus frequencies or ASSR’s precise frequency-specific assessments, each test offers an accurate diagnosis. Remember, regardless of the path chosen, the goal remains the same: to optimize hearing health.