BERA Test
Audiology & Speech Therapy · Diagnostic
45-90 minutes
Duration
Outpatient
Setting
There is no recovery period needed as the test itself is non-invasive and painless. If sedation was used, the child is monitored until fully alert before going home. Results are reviewed by an audiologist and paediatrician together to plan any necessary intervention such as hearing aids or further evaluation.
Recovery
₹2,000+
Cost
📖About BERA Test
The Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry, or BERA test, is an objective hearing test that measures the electrical activity of the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound stimuli, without requiring active participation from the patient. It is especially valuable for testing hearing in infants, young children, or individuals who cannot reliably respond to conventional hearing tests. The test can also help localise the source of a hearing problem, distinguishing between issues in the inner ear and problems along the auditory nerve pathway. Because it does not depend on behavioural responses, it provides objective, reliable results even in sleeping infants.
Duration
45-90 minutes
Setting
Outpatient
Recovery
There is no recovery period needed as the test itself is non-invasive and painless. If sedation was used, the child is monitored until fully alert before going home. Results are reviewed by an audiologist and paediatrician together to plan any necessary intervention such as hearing aids or further evaluation.
Cost Range
₹2,000 – ₹6,000
Specialty
Audiology & Speech Therapy
Success Rate
Highly accurate for hearing threshold detection
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📋Indications — Who Needs This Treatment?
- 1Newborn hearing screening follow-up, suspected hearing loss in infants and young children, evaluation of auditory nerve function, unexplained hearing loss in adults, assessment before cochlear implant candidacy
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🔬How the Treatment is Performed
- 1Small electrodes are placed on the scalp and earlobes to record electrical brain activity, and earphones deliver a series of clicking sounds at different volumes to each ear. For infants, the test is usually performed during natural sleep or under mild sedation to ensure stillness throughout the recording. A computer analyses the brainwave responses to each sound stimulus to determine the hearing threshold and identify any abnormalities in the auditory pathway.
📝Pre-Treatment Preparation
- 1Consult a Audiology & Speech Therapy specialist to confirm suitability for BERA Test
- 2Complete all pre-treatment investigations as directed — blood tests, imaging, ECG, or specialist clearance
- 3Disclose all current medications, supplements, and allergies to your treating physician
- 4Fast (nil by mouth) for 6–8 hours if the treatment involves anaesthesia or sedation
- 5Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you, especially for procedures requiring sedation
- 6Follow all specific pre-treatment instructions issued by your care team regarding diet or medication changes
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
⚠️Possible Side Effects & Risks
- 1Mild skin irritation from electrode adhesive, temporary discomfort from earphones, sedation-related risks if sedation is used for young children
🩹Recovery & Aftercare
- 1There is no recovery period needed as the test itself is non-invasive and painless. If sedation was used, the child is monitored until fully alert before going home. Results are reviewed by an audiologist and paediatrician together to plan any necessary intervention such as hearing aids or further evaluation.
Treatment Journey — What to Expect
Before Treatment
Pre-treatment workup, consent signing, and preparation as instructed by your care team. Baseline tests and imaging completed.
During Treatment
BERA Test is administered over 45-90 minutes. Vital signs monitored. Your specialist manages any immediate side effects.
Immediate Post-Treatment
Recovery observation, assessment of initial response, discharge instructions provided. Follow-up appointment scheduled.
Long-term Recovery (There is no recovery period needed as the test itself is non-invasive and painless. If sedation was used, the child is monitored until fully alert before going home. Results are reviewed by an audiologist and paediatrician together to plan any necessary intervention such as hearing aids or further evaluation.)
Return to normal activities as tolerated. Monitoring for treatment response and side effects. Ongoing support from your specialist.
BERA Test Cost in India (2024–25)
| Component | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist Consultation | ₹300 – ₹800 | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Procedure / Session Cost | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Medications | ₹500 – ₹3,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Follow-up & Monitoring | ₹300 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Rehabilitation / Aftercare | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 |
* Estimates for India 2024–25. CGHS / Ayushman Bharat may cover eligible treatments. Individual costs vary by hospital, city, and complexity.
Treatment Outcomes
BERA Test has a documented success rate of Highly accurate for hearing threshold detection when performed by qualified specialists at accredited facilities. Individual outcomes vary based on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BERA Test?+
The Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry, or BERA test, is an objective hearing test that measures the electrical activity of the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound stimuli, without requiring active participation from the patient. It is especially valuable for testing hearing in infants, young children, or individuals who cannot reliably respond to conventional hearing tests. The test can also help localise the source of a hearing problem, distinguishing between issues in the inner ear and problems along the auditory nerve pathway. Because it does not depend on behavioural responses, it provides objective, reliable results even in sleeping infants.
Who is a candidate for BERA Test?+
BERA Test is recommended for patients diagnosed with specific conditions where other approaches have been insufficient. Your Audiology & Speech Therapy specialist will assess your suitability based on your diagnosis, health history, and treatment goals.
How long does BERA Test take?+
The typical duration is 45-90 minutes. This may vary based on the complexity of your case and individual response to treatment.
What is the recovery time after BERA Test?+
Recovery typically takes There is no recovery period needed as the test itself is non-invasive and painless. If sedation was used, the child is monitored until fully alert before going home. Results are reviewed by an audiologist and paediatrician together to plan any necessary intervention such as hearing aids or further evaluation.. Your care team will provide specific instructions based on your response and overall health.
What are the risks or side effects of BERA Test?+
Side effects vary by individual and are detailed in the section above. Your specialist will discuss all risks and benefits with you before treatment begins. Serious adverse effects are uncommon but are part of the informed consent process.
What is the success rate of BERA Test?+
BERA Test has a documented success rate of Highly accurate for hearing threshold detection at accredited facilities. Outcomes depend on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified specialist before deciding on any treatment. In emergencies, call 112.