What Really Happens During a Hearing Test—According to Comedian Brian Regan

|

Gregory Frazer

|

Apr 20, 2023

I was listening to this piece by a comedian recently about hearing tests, and I think that anybody who has had a hearing test might be able to relate. Take a look at the video and see for yourself:

But how accurate is this scenario really? While many people may feel like a fish out of water in situations that are unfamiliar to them, a hearing test with Pacific Hearing is nothing to be wary of. Would you like to know what really happens at a hearing test?

What Really Goes on at a Hearing Test?

Upon entering an audiology clinic, you might expect to be greeted by a chorus of singing parrots or an enchanting harpist playing melodies that can only be heard by those with perfect pitch. But the truth is, you'll likely be met with a friendly receptionist who'll ask you to fill out a medical history form—not quite as magical, but essential nonetheless.

Once you've filled out the necessary paperwork, it's time to meet your audiologist. Contrary to popular belief, they don't wear stethoscopes on their ears or use a megaphone to communicate. In reality, they're trained professionals with advanced degrees and extensive knowledge in the field of audiology.

The audiologist will likely begin by asking you questions about your hearing history and any concerns you might have. Don't be alarmed if they pull out a flashlight and take a peek inside your ears; they're not searching for buried treasure, but rather examining your eardrums for any signs of trouble.

Next comes the fun part: the hearing test! You'll be escorted into a cozy, soundproof booth—think of it as a VIP lounge for your ears. You'll put on a pair of swanky headphones, which are more advanced than your run-of-the-mill earbuds.

As you sit back and relax, the audiologist will play a series of tones, beeps, and chirps at various frequencies and volumes. Your job is to raise your hand or press a button when you hear a sound. This is the part where you may be tempted to pretend you have superhuman hearing abilities, but resist the urge! Honesty is key to getting accurate results.

After completing the beeping orchestra, you'll likely undergo a speech recognition test. The audiologist will play recordings of words or phrases at different volumes, and you'll be asked to repeat them. Don't worry if you find yourself saying "banana" when the word was "umbrella"—it's all part of the process.

Once the tests are complete, you'll have a chat with your audiologist about the results. They'll explain your hearing abilities and, if necessary, discuss potential treatment options. Rest assured, they won't prescribe a giant ear trumpet or a lifetime supply of cotton balls.

So there you have it—a quirky, fun, and informative peek into the world of hearing tests. While it may not be filled with magic or secret soundscapes, it's an essential step in maintaining your hearing health and understanding the complex world that exists within our ears.

Pacific Hearing Inc

If you’re interested in a hearing assessment in Los Angeles, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us!

Search

Request a Callback

Request a Callback

Addressing your hearing challenges or a loved one’s hearing is a difficult decision to make, with many options available to you and lots of conflicting information.

That’s why we have a team of hearing experts on hand to help.

Simply complete the form and one of our expert hearing doctors will call you for a friendly no-obligation conversation to answer your questions and offer you their experienced guidance.

Don’t want to wait? Call us at: (310) 909-0180

Contact Details:

Request a Callback

Addressing your hearing challenges or a loved one’s hearing is a difficult decision to make, with many options available to you and lots of conflicting information.

That’s why we have a team of hearing experts on hand to help.

Simply complete the form and one of our expert hearing doctors will call you for a friendly no-obligation conversation to answer your questions and offer you their experienced guidance.

Don’t want to wait? Call us at: (310) 909-0180

Contact Details:

Request a Callback

Addressing your hearing challenges or a loved one’s hearing is a difficult decision to make, with many options available to you and lots of conflicting information.

That’s why we have a team of hearing experts on hand to help.

Simply complete the form and one of our expert hearing doctors will call you for a friendly no-obligation conversation to answer your questions and offer you their experienced guidance.

Don’t want to wait? Call us at: (310) 909-0180

Contact Details:

Meet the Team

Meet the Team That Cares for You

Our audiology team brings together years of clinical experience, advanced training, and a shared commitment to patient-centered care. We work collaboratively to ensure every patient receives thoughtful guidance, accurate answers, and personalized treatment.

Meet the Team

Meet the Team That Cares for You

Our audiology team brings together years of clinical experience, advanced training, and a shared commitment to patient-centered care. We work collaboratively to ensure every patient receives thoughtful guidance, accurate answers, and personalized treatment.

Meet the Team

Meet the Team That Cares for You

Our audiology team brings together years of clinical experience, advanced training, and a shared commitment to patient-centered care. We work collaboratively to ensure every patient receives thoughtful guidance, accurate answers, and personalized treatment.

Patient Resources

Ask the Experts…

Explore expert advice, research updates, and practical guidance from our clinical team. These articles are designed to help you better understand hearing health, treatment options, and the latest advancements in audiology.

|

|

Feb 25, 2026

You don’t have to wait for total silence to seek help.

|

|

Jan 21, 2026

convenience should never come at the cost of safety or accuracy.

|

|

Dec 19, 2025

We rarely consider how our food choices affect our hearing and cognitive clarity.

Patient Resources

Ask the Experts…

Explore expert advice, research updates, and practical guidance from our clinical team. These articles are designed to help you better understand hearing health, treatment options, and the latest advancements in audiology.

|

|

Feb 25, 2026

You don’t have to wait for total silence to seek help.

|

|

Jan 21, 2026

convenience should never come at the cost of safety or accuracy.

|

|

Dec 19, 2025

We rarely consider how our food choices affect our hearing and cognitive clarity.

Patient Resources

Ask the Experts…

Explore expert advice, research updates, and practical guidance from our clinical team. These articles are designed to help you better understand hearing health, treatment options, and the latest advancements in audiology.

|

|

Feb 25, 2026

You don’t have to wait for total silence to seek help.

|

|

Jan 21, 2026

convenience should never come at the cost of safety or accuracy.

The Team of Doctors of Audiology That is Trusted by Thousands of Patients, State-Wide Physicians, Local Organizations, and National Universities

© 2026 Pacific Hearing Inc. All rights reserved.

Contact Details:

The Team of Doctors of Audiology That is Trusted by Thousands of Patients, State-Wide Physicians, Local Organizations, and National Universities

© 2026 Pacific Hearing Inc. All rights reserved.

Contact Details:

The Team of Doctors of Audiology That is Trusted by Thousands of Patients, State-Wide Physicians, Local Organizations, and National Universities

© 2026 Pacific Hearing Inc. All rights reserved.

Contact Details:

Call Now