What Is a BERA Test? Why It’s Important for Newborn Hearing Screening
A BERA test (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry), also called ABR/BAER, is a hearing test that checks how the hearing pathway and brainstem respond to sound. It is especially useful for babies and young children because the test does not require the child to actively respond.
How Is a BERA Test Done?
Small sensor stickers called electrodes are placed on the baby’s head. Soft sounds or clicks are then played through small earphones. The equipment records the electrical responses generated along the hearing pathway.
Babies can usually have the test while they are naturally asleep, making it a comfortable and non-invasive procedure.
Why Is BERA Important for Newborns?
Some babies can have hearing loss without showing obvious signs. Early hearing assessment helps identify possible hearing problems so that appropriate evaluation and support can begin early, which is important for speech and language development.
A BERA/ABR test may be recommended when a newborn hearing screening does not give a clear result or when there are other concerns about the baby’s hearing.
When Should Parents Consider a BERA Test?
A pediatric hearing specialist or ENT doctor may recommend BERA when a baby:
- Does not pass newborn hearing screening
- Does not respond normally to sounds
- Has risk factors for hearing loss
- Has concerns about hearing or speech development
A “refer” result on a screening test does not necessarily mean the baby has hearing loss; further testing is needed to understand the baby’s hearing accurately.
Looking for BERA Test in Hyderabad?
If your baby has been referred for a BERA test or newborn hearing screening, consult an experienced ENT/audiology team for appropriate evaluation.
Dr. Shareef, Consultant ENT Surgeon, provides evaluation and treatment for children’s ear, nose and throat conditions in Hyderabad.
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