What is the main reason for using Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs) during hearing assessments?

The primary reason for using Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs) in hearing assessments is to confirm behavioral test results. OAEs are sound waves generated in the inner ear, specifically the cochlea, in response to auditory stimuli. They provide objective measures of cochlear function, which can indicate whether the outer hair cells of the cochlea are functioning normally.

When behavioral tests, such as pure-tone audiometry, are performed, they rely on the responses from the individual being tested. OAEs offer an independent way to verify these results by providing physiological data about the cochlea's health and functioning. If there's a discrepancy between behavioral test results and OAE findings, it suggests that there could be an issue with how the individual perceives sound or processes auditory signals.

In this context, the use of OAEs is particularly valuable in identifying individuals with auditory processing issues or those who may have hearing loss that isn't reflected in behavioral assessments. This confirmation helps clinicians in making accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of an individual's auditory capabilities.