What does a tympanometer primarily measure?

A tympanometer is an essential tool used in audiology that primarily measures middle ear function. It assesses how well the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and the middle ear components are working, which is crucial for diagnosing conditions affecting hearing.

When using a tympanometer, a small probe is inserted into the ear canal, and it emits sound while varying air pressure. This process allows for the evaluation of the compliance of the eardrum and the mobility of the middle ear structures, providing insights into possible fluid presence, eustachian tube function, or any structural abnormalities. By measuring the changes in air pressure and resulting acoustic compliance of the ear, practitioners can detect issues such as otitis media (middle ear infection), eustachian tube dysfunction, or perforated tympanic membranes.

The other options relate to different aspects of auditory assessment or care: audiometric thresholds measure the quietest sounds a person can hear at various frequencies, acoustic reflexes involve the involuntary muscle contractions in the middle ear in response to loud sounds, and hearing aid calibration involves adjusting hearing aids for optimal performance for the user. While these are all important in the broader context of audiology, the tympanometer's primary function is distinctly focused on assessing the middle