What Is Tympanometry and When Would I Need One?

Posted on by Palmetto ENT & Allergy

Tympanometry is a test used to diagnose problems in the middle ear. Your ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist may recommend a tympanometry test if they suspect you have one or more of the following conditions:

The tympanometry provides measurable information about how well your eardrum moves in response to pressure. An abnormal tympanometry will help your provider diagnose the condition that’s preventing the eardrum from moving as it should.

Let’s take a look at what you can expect during a tympanometry test.

What Is a Tympanometry Probe?

Tympanometry uses a probe called a tympanometer to perform and record the test. The probe has three parts:

  1. An air port that blows air into the ear canal
  2. A speaker that sends sound energy toward the eardrum
  3. A microphone that records information about how well the eardrum moves in response to air and sound

What To Expect From Tympanometry

During tympanometry, you will sit up and be asked to remain completely still as movement, coughing, laughing, talking and swallowing can interfere with the accuracy of the results. Most tympanometry tests will follow similar steps:

  1. Your provider will take a look inside your ear using an otoscope.
  2. They will insert the tympanometer probe into the ear. The probe has a soft tip and will likely feel like an earplug.
  3. The probe will send air pressure and sound into your ear.
  4. The probe will record how well your eardrum moves in response to the air pressure and sound. The results are graphed out for your ENT provider to read.

Depending on the results, your provider will proceed with treatments or tests including but not limited to removing blockages, repairing the eardrum, conducting an MRI or X-ray to check for growths or a hearing test to check for hearing loss.

To learn more about tympanometry tests, contact Palmetto ENT & Allergy today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.