What is a Tympanogram Test?

A tympanogram test assesses how well your eardrum moves in response to changes in air pressure. The test helps determine the presence of fluid in the middle ear, eardrum perforations, or problems with the Eustachian tube.

How Tympanometry Works

The tympanogram test, also known as tympanometry, is a quick and painless procedure. An audiologist performs the test using a device with a small probe, similar to an earphone. This probe is inserted into the ear canal to create a seal, and a small device attached to the probe pushes air into the ear.

• Procedure:

  1. The audiologist places a probe into the ear canal.
  2. The device changes the air pressure in the ear.
  3. The machine measures how the eardrum moves with these pressure changes.
  4. The results are displayed on a graph called a tympanogram.

• Patient's Role: The patient simply needs to sit still during the test.

What the Tympanogram Shows

The tympanogram displays a graph that indicates how the eardrum is moving. Different patterns on the tympanogram suggest various conditions:

• Normal Movement: Indicates a healthy eardrum and middle ear function.
• Restricted Movement: May suggest fluid in the middle ear, a stiff eardrum, or scarring.
• Excessive Movement: Could indicate a thin or weakened eardrum.
• No Movement: May indicate a perforated eardrum or blockage in the ear canal.

The test results help healthcare professionals diagnose and manage ear-related conditions.