Category 1 Medical
Posted by adequateinvestor@reddit | flying | View on Reddit | 9 comments
Hey everyone,
I have my cat 1 coming up and I’m super nervous about it because my hearing isn’t great, there was substantial damage to one side, a hearing aid had helped but I’m still worried it might not be good enough to pass the test.
Could somebody explain exactly how the test is conducted, insofar as, is each ear tested separately, do they play rushing noises in the other one etc,
flying-ModTeam@reddit
Medicals can be confusing and even scary, we get it. Unfortunately, the medical process is very complex with many variables. It's too complex, in fact, for any of us to be able to offer you any specific help or advice.
We strongly suggest you discuss your concerns with a qualified aviation medical examiner before you actually submit to an official examination, as a hiccup in your medical process can close doors for you in the future. Your local AME may be able to provide a consultation. Other places that may provide aeromedical advice include: AOPA, EAA, the Mayo Clinic, and Aviation Medicine Advisory Service.
For reference, here is a link to the FAA's Synopsis of Medical Standards and for more in-depth information here is a link to the FAA's Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners.
Also, feel free to browse our collection of past medical write-ups and questions in our FAQ.
Finally, we suggest you read the instructions on the medical application very closely. Do not volunteer information that isn't asked for, but also do not lie. Some people may urge you to omit pertinent information, or even outright lie, on your medical application in order to avoid added hassle and expense in obtaining a medical certificate. Know that making false statements on your medical application is a federal crime and that people have been successfully prosecuted for it. But for heaven's sake, don't tell the FAA any more than you absolutely have to.
If you're not in the United States, the above advice is still generally correct. Just substitute the FAA with your local aviation authority.
Good luck!
CryOfTheWind@reddit
For renewal they will talk normally and then whisper and ask what they said.
Initial I had to go into a sound proof room. Then they give you headphones to wear that make beeps coming from different directions. You press a button when you hear a beep.
adequateinvestor@reddit (OP)
Did they isolate each ear when you did the initial test?
CryOfTheWind@reddit
It's coming from the surround sound headphone so yes each ear will be tested on it's own. Some beeps are quiet, some loud, some start quiet and become louder also several different frequencies throughout the test.
adequateinvestor@reddit (OP)
All I’m going to be able to do is take it and see, thanks for the info
CryOfTheWind@reddit
I'd ask your CAME about anything you need to bring in regarding your hearing aid as well. Better to know exactly what they want from you to save yourself from multiple trips and costs. I honestly have no idea the standards for hearing aides though assume they may be allowed like glasses.
Quick google says: "Must be able to hear sounds of less than or equal to 30 dB in each ear in the 500 to 8000 Hz frequency range"
Baystate411@reddit
Are you in the US?
adequateinvestor@reddit (OP)
No, Canada
rFlyingTower@reddit
This is a copy of the original post body for posterity:
Hey everyone,
I have my cat 1 coming up and I’m super nervous about it because my hearing isn’t great, there was substantial damage to one side, a hearing aid had helped but I’m still worried it might not be good enough to pass the test.
Could somebody explain exactly how the test is conducted, insofar as, is each ear tested separately, do they play rushing noises in the other one etc,
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