Air vs Bone Conduction Test: What's the Difference?
- Hearing Solutions
- Mar 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 29
A complete hearing test includes both air conduction and bone conduction testing. Together, they reveal not only HOW MUCH hearing loss you have but also WHERE in the ear the problem is located.
Learn more at Professional Hearing Solutions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Call 0332-5014111.
Air Conduction Testing
Sound is played through headphones or insert earphones
Sound travels through the entire hearing pathway: outer ear → ear canal → eardrum → middle ear bones → inner ear (cochlea) → hearing nerve
This tests the complete hearing system
Results show your overall hearing ability
Marked as circles (O) for right ear and crosses (X) for left ear on the audiogram
If air conduction is normal, your hearing is normal — no further testing needed
Bone Conduction Testing
A small vibrating device (bone oscillator) is placed behind the ear on the mastoid bone
Sound vibrations bypass the outer and middle ear entirely
Vibrations go directly to the inner ear (cochlea) through the skull bone
This tests only the inner ear and hearing nerve — skipping the outer and middle ear
Results show the health of your inner ear specifically
Marked as brackets ([ ]) or arrows on the audiogram
Why Both Tests Matter
Scenario | Air Conduction | Bone Conduction | Diagnosis |
Normal hearing | Normal (0-25 dB) | Normal (0-25 dB) | No hearing loss |
Conductive loss | Poor (elevated) | Normal (0-25 dB) | Problem in outer/middle ear — often treatable |
Sensorineural loss | Poor (elevated) | Poor (elevated) | Problem in inner ear — permanent, needs hearing aids |
Mixed loss | Very poor | Moderately poor | Both outer/middle AND inner ear problems |
The Air-Bone Gap
The difference between air conduction and bone conduction results is called the air-bone gap. A significant gap (10+ dB) indicates a conductive component — meaning part of your hearing loss is in the outer or middle ear and may be medically treatable. No gap means the loss is sensorineural (inner ear). This distinction is critical because it determines whether you need medical treatment, hearing aids, or both.
Understanding Hearing Health in Pakistan
Hearing health is a critical but often overlooked aspect of overall wellbeing in Pakistan. According to WHO estimates, over 7% of Pakistan's population experiences some form of hearing loss, yet many go undiagnosed due to lack of awareness and access to professional audiology services. Professional Hearing Solutions is committed to changing this by providing world-class hearing healthcare in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Why Professional Hearing Care Matters
Accurate diagnosis: Self-diagnosis and over-the-counter devices cannot replace a professional hearing assessment. Only a qualified audiologist can determine the type and degree of hearing loss and recommend the right solution.
Customized solutions: Every ear is different. Professional hearing aid fitting ensures the device is programmed specifically for your hearing loss pattern, lifestyle, and comfort preferences.
Ongoing support: Hearing needs change over time. Regular follow-ups with your audiologist ensure your hearing aids continue to perform optimally as your hearing evolves.
Quality assurance: Authorized dealers like Professional Hearing Solutions provide genuine products with manufacturer warranty, protecting your investment.
Hearing Aid Options at Professional Hearing Solutions
Category | Models Available | Price Range | Best For |
Budget | Signia Prompt | From Rs.90,000/unit | Mild hearing loss, first-time users |
Mid-Range | Signia Intuis 3, Motion 13 | Rs.185,000-375,000/unit | Moderate loss, daily use |
Premium | Signia Pure 312, Silk X | Rs.265,000-875,000/unit | Active lifestyle, discreet |
Rechargeable | Signia Orion, Pure C&G | Rs.250,000-1,695,000/pair | No battery hassle |
Note: Prices may vary slightly due to market fluctuations, currency exchange rates, and inflation. Contact Professional Hearing Solutions for the latest confirmed pricing.
Take the First Step
Whether you suspect hearing loss for yourself or a family member, the first step is always a professional hearing test. At Professional Hearing Solutions, our audiologists provide comprehensive hearing assessments followed by personalized recommendations. With a 4.9-star Google rating and over 400 verified patient reviews, we are trusted by families across Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Call 0332-5014111 to book your hearing assessment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I always need both tests?
If air conduction results are normal, bone conduction is not needed. If air conduction shows loss, bone conduction is essential to determine the type of loss.
Q2: Is bone conduction testing uncomfortable?
The bone oscillator applies light pressure behind your ear. It vibrates gently. Most patients find it comfortable — not painful at all.
Q3: What does an air-bone gap mean for me?
An air-bone gap means part of your hearing loss may be treatable with medication or surgery. This is actually good news compared to pure sensorineural loss.
Q4: Can bone conduction testing detect nerve damage?
Yes. If bone conduction results are poor, it confirms inner ear or nerve involvement — sensorineural hearing loss.
Q5: Where can I get comprehensive hearing testing?
Professional Hearing Solutions performs both air and bone conduction testing at Islamabad and Rawalpindi branches. Call 0332-5014111.
Visit Professional Hearing Solutions
Islamabad Branch: Office B-9, Muhammad Gulistan Khan Plaza 82 East, Besides Tehzeeb Bakers, Fazl-ul-Haq Road, Blue Area, Islamabad, Pakistan
Google Maps: View Islamabad Location on Map
Rawalpindi Branch: Office 5/6, Ground Floor, Siraj Plaza, Opposite Rasheed Nursing Home, Adjacent Gulzari Optics, Saidpur Road, Rawalpindi
Google Maps: View Rawalpindi Location on Map
Phone/WhatsApp: 0332-5014111
Website: www.professionalhearingsolution.com
Conclusion
Air and bone conduction testing together reveal the full picture of your hearing. Get a comprehensive assessment at Professional Hearing Solutions. Call 0332-5014111.
