BERA (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry)

BERA, also known as ABR, is an objective hearing test that records how the hearing nerve and brainstem respond to sound. It does not need the person to respond, which makes it especially useful for babies and young children.

What is the BERA test?

Small sticker electrodes on the forehead and behind the ears pick up tiny electrical signals while clicks are played through earphones. The pattern of waves helps the audiologist estimate hearing levels and check how well sound travels along the auditory pathway. At Muskan Speech & Hearing Centre, the BERA test in Jalandhar is performed by trained audiologists.

Why is the BERA test for babies advised?
It is often recommended when:

• A newborn hearing screening shows a "refer" result
  
• A baby was born early, had jaundice or needed NICU care
  
• There is a family history of childhood hearing loss
  
• A child cannot take part in a regular hearing test

What do the results show?
BERA helps confirm whether a hearing loss is present, estimates its degree, and shows whether the problem lies in the ear or along the nerve pathway. With these answers, the audiologist can guide families on hearing aids, further medical review or early intervention.