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Ken1 wrote:

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Two weeks ago I had a Audio C&P everything appears to be similar to exam I had in 2009 with this exception.

 

At the end of Verbal testing the VA Attendant doing the exam came into the sound proof room to complete a middle ear drum test which was air pressure (Unknown PSI). The Attendant put a device into my ear canal increased the air pressure. The device popped out the attendant put back in my ear canal and applied heavy hand pressure to hold device in place to complete the test My left ear had a very sharp pain during the test and I told her that the test was painful. But my right ear has been very uncomfortable since this test procedure for two weeks.  

 

Any idea why his method was utilized? I have an appointment with my primary care physician tomorrow but would appreciate your replies.

 

Ken

Ken1 wrote:

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Thanks for the reply and information. From my point of view she use excessive pressure to hold devive in ear. Even now my right ear has some problems.

Ken

1gringo1 wrote:

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The VA doctor told me to press the button even if I though I  heard a noise. Really! I think this doctor should be fired.  Said my results had a descrepany-Va wouldn't accept the results- re-do the exam and this time listen to hear instructions. If I don't hear something why should i press a button. So the VA can get out of paying me a disability or rating. Not  good!

wvvet55 wrote:

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In September 2009 was awarded 10% for SC hearing loss.The average loss in left ear was 56 and average loss in right ear was 65,so usingTable VIa the V.A. arrived at the percentage of 10%,also word recognition was 88% and 84%.In April of this year went for annual audiology exam(computerized exam),nad the audiolgist noted 'significant changes//worsening" from previous exam in 2009,the averages were 78(R) & 64(L).I requested a review through Huntington,WV VARO in late April and had a C&P on June 3rd,even after that exam the audiologist went over the results with me,the averages were 68.75(R) /61(L) and she mentioned "changes" from C&P a year ago.Now today I recieved the determination letter & rating will remain 10% for SC hearing loss and for the most part am satisfied with the decision,reason being both exams this year (2 different VAMC's) confirmed to me that changes had occured over the course of a year,so at least I know where I stand with hearing loss.I have 2 hearing aids and batteries,so I am happy.Another exam will come about in 6-8 months,then I'll go from there,also total time for this claim was just over 60 days(pretty good),as well Tinnitus was continued.As an added note the VAMC where the C&P was done used standard testing methods where the earlier one was computerized and very comprehensive,even recorded word list.But all in all the experience was wonderful and no problems,BTW I was a Wheel Vehicle mechanic with the Army in the 70's.Just wanted to share this experience,of course VBN is great source of information and enjoy the postings.

wvvet55 wrote:

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Moontoons..Thank you for the info.I recieved new hearing aids just last year@ the same VAMC where I have my yearly audilogy testing done,they are very good about making adjustments,changing tubing,etc.As I mentioned this facility uses computerized format(including recorded word list),what's nice is a copy of the test is usually available in about 15 min.However,the C&P exam is done at another facility but,with the word list the audiologist gives the words as she adjusts the volume.I asked for a copy of the test and she provides a handwritten graph,then I compare it with the C&P report a couple weeks later.I know on the worksheet it stipulates"recorded" word list.As well I don't recall being instructed "to guess".You brought up some interesting points that I will explore with my DAV representative.I had a tympanomastoidectomy done last year on my right ear(that is by the way considered to be worst),and I've been told sometimes these procedures may not help in improving hearing levels,but the procedure needed done.I've worn hearing aids for years,and even have an outside audiologist I go to.Again thanks soo much for the info.

wvvet55 wrote:

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On April 10th(Computerized annual exam) SRT was 70(r) &60(L),Maryland CNC-Recorded.Those Averages were 78(R)/64(L).Saw an ENT same day and he saw those results and noted "Bone conduction scores fairly stable,but worsening of Air conduction in both ears".With the C&P,SRT was 70(R) &50(L).Those averages were 68.75(R)/61(L),this was the one not using a recording and no instruction given to "guess" a response,however was at one level.In the 'Speech Tests' box below SRT/SDT is P.B. List(%/db) are numbers 88%(L)/84%(R),these numbers are given on C&P report as Speech Recognition Scores.The audiologist examiner told me "there were significant changes from C&P of 2009,and she would write it up best she could but,she wasn't really familiar on V.A. criteria".

Oh, Geez...if she's not familiar, she shouldn't be doing this.  We had to be trained to be examiners. Your worsening scores are due to the tympanomastoidectomy.  That would affect your air conduction but not necessarily the bone.  You appear to have a moderately-severe hearing loss which is (obviously) worse in that right ear.  Your discrimination scores (PB list) are considered "good" in VA speak. All the VA aud has to do is write up your scores, not exactly rocket science.

I will bring it up with DAV rep,and see what he thinks.

Yes, I think you should

As far as current hearing levels,I've noticed changes just in past year or so,as when I take the aids out,don't hear much of anything.

That is not uncommon.  You get used to the hearing aids and find that without them, things sound worse. Plus, it is not unusual for hearing to change in a year.  That's why we recommend annual audios for hearing aid user.

I have a pair of Phonak Exelia Art,

My ABSOLUTE Favorites!  Great hearing aids!

and were reprogrammed with more gain to match target in April,go back in September for another hearing aid check.You've been more then helpful with your suggestions,I've read a number of your responses to other postings.Some folks have bad experiences and there are good experiences,but like the saying 'it's mostly in the numbers",that's why I've tracked my audiology exams over the years,just to see how things are changing.I'm happy to have hearing aids and batteries.Thanks ever so much,you're insight is invaluable.

Thank you for your kind words. I'm just here to help the vets any way I can.
And thank YOU for your service to this country.