The tone decay test (TDT), also known as the threshold tone decay test (TTDT), is a hearing test that measures how well you can hear a continuous tone over time. It is used to detect and measure auditory fatigue, which is a temporary decrease in hearing sensitivity caused by prolonged exposure to loud sounds.
The TDT is typically performed in a soundproof booth. You will wear headphones and listen to a continuous tone at a comfortable listening level. The audiologist will then gradually decrease the intensity of the tone until you can no longer hear it. The amount of time that you can hear the tone is called the tone decay time.
A normal tone decay time is 60 seconds or more. A tone decay time of less than 60 seconds may indicate auditory fatigue or other hearing problems, such as cochlear hearing loss.
The TDT is a useful test for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of hearing conditions, including:
- Auditory fatigue
- Cochlear hearing loss
- Meniere’s disease
- Acoustic neuroma
- Multiple sclerosis
The TDT can also be used to assess the effectiveness of hearing aids and other treatments.
The TDT is a safe and painless test. It typically takes about 5-10 minutes to complete.
Here are some of the benefits of the TDT:
- It can be used to detect and measure auditory fatigue.
- It is useful for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of hearing conditions.
- It can be used to assess the effectiveness of hearing aids and other treatments.
If you have any concerns about your hearing, or if you have a history of hearing loss in your family, it is important to see an audiologist for a hearing assessment. The TDT is a valuable tool that can help to diagnose and monitor hearing conditions and to ensure that you receive the best possible treatment.
