SRT in hearing tests stands for Speech Reception Threshold, which is the lowest intensity level at which a person can hear and correctly repeat words.
Understanding Speech Reception Threshold (SRT)
During a hearing test, an audiologist assesses your ability to hear and understand speech. One crucial measurement is the Speech Reception Threshold (SRT).
How SRT is Determined
The audiologist will ask you to repeat a list of words presented at different volume levels. The SRT is the quietest level at which you can correctly repeat approximately 50% of the words. This measurement helps determine the degree of your hearing loss specifically related to speech.
Importance of SRT
The SRT provides valuable information about your hearing abilities, helping audiologists:
- Determine the degree of hearing loss for speech.
- Confirm the reliability of pure-tone audiometry results.
- Assist in selecting appropriate hearing aids or other amplification devices.
SRT in Relation to Other Hearing Tests
SRT is often measured along with other tests, such as speech discrimination (or word recognition ability). While SRT measures the threshold for hearing speech, speech discrimination assesses how well you understand speech at a comfortable listening level. The audiologist measures speech discrimination, also called word recognition ability, after determining your SRT.
In summary, SRT is a key component of a comprehensive hearing evaluation, providing valuable insights into your ability to hear and understand speech.
