Stapedius Muscle Trigger
Loud Probe Sparks Ear Protection
The ear has a natural reflex that responds to loud sounds by tightening tiny middle-ear muscles to protect hearing clarity. When this reflex is altered or absent, people may notice sound sensitivity, difficulty tolerating noise, or changes in hearing comfort. Symptoms can occur with hearing loss, tinnitus, or changes in the neurological pathways affecting sound processing.
Reflex Arc Revelation
Noise Burst Bets on Bilateral Bracing
Acoustic reflex threshold testing measures the level at which the ear's protective reflex activates in response to sound. During the test, controlled tones are delivered through a probe placed at the ear canal while changes in middle-ear muscle activity are recorded. This shows whether the reflex is present, absent, or triggered at an unusually low or high level.
At Harley AVM, ART testing is carried out in a calm clinic environment and forms part of a wider hearing assessment. The test is quick, non-invasive, and does not cause discomfort. Results provide insight into middle-ear function, auditory nerve pathways, and how sound is processed beyond the inner ear.
Pinpointing the Cause
Understanding Sound Processing Before Escalation
Reflex Response Royalty
Assessment begins with a detailed history, ear examination, and hearing tests. We consider symptoms like sound intolerance, tinnitus, or communication difficulty before recommending Acoustic Reflex testing.
Management is usually non-surgical. ART findings help guide further investigation, monitoring, or reassurance, depending on results. Referral or advanced assessment is considered only when findings suggest neural involvement or when symptoms persist and affect daily comfort and communication.
How We Assess Sensorineural Hearing Loss
At Harley Street Audiovestibular Clinic, acoustic reflex testing is interpreted by clinicians who focus exclusively on hearing and balance disorders. Our experience allows us to relate reflex findings to hearing levels, tinnitus, and neural pathways, rather than viewing results in isolation. We take time to explain what the findings mean and how they influence next steps.
Assessment, testing, and follow-up are coordinated through one clinic, ensuring continuity of care and clear communication throughout. If sound sensitivity, hearing discomfort, or unexplained auditory symptoms persist, we invite you to book an assessment, request a call back, or submit an enquiry to discuss personalised next steps with our team.
Major Insurance Providers Accepted
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Conditions We Are Treating At Harley Street Audiovestibular Clinic
Expert Medical Care for Hearing, Tinnitus & Balance
Request An Appointment With One of Our Consultants
If you are living with dizziness, vertigo or unsteadiness, our team can help identify the cause. Your consultant will carry out the right combination of tests, explain the results in clear language and agree a treatment plan with you - so you know exactly what is happening and what can be done.