Hello

A Tympanogram will test the middle ear and mobility of the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the conduction bones by creating variations of air pressure in the ear canal.

The tympanogram is not a hearing test, but rather a test used in conjunction with other auditory exams/test.

There is a condition known as Hyperacusis which is a condition of 'exaggerated subjective response to noise and loudness' by the ear. It can be caused by damage to the inner ear. You stated he has been sensitive to sound since birth and the recent tonsilectomy has even further exaggerated it, which can actually happen. Head and neck surgery is one of the causes for hyperacusis. His surgery might have worsened it or could be coincidental.

If his hearing has not been tested since his surgery, I would recommend that he return to the Audiologist. There is something called Retraining Therapy which uses broadband noise, but his level of loudness discomfort would need to be established first....and the Audiologist or ENT could help with this. Having tubes would most likely be of no help as tubes help with children who have repeated ear infections (another cause of Hyperacusis). Tubes help fluid flow out of the middle ear, and decreases pressure.

Ear plugs are very often used in patients with this condition and some say they could not live without them.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperacusis

Hope this helps!

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Please ask for clarification if needed.

I misunderstood the question...I thought the main concern was the intolerance of loud noises....if he is having intolerance to pressure differences and has issues with not being able to tolerate loud noises, then yes, tubes might be a help. The tympanogram will be helpful to check for pressure in the ear canal and might be a very good test for his problem. It is a painless procedure and only takes a few minutes, but could cause him slight pain if he is having pressure issues to begin with. This is definitely something to talk to the ENT about. If your previous ENT is not helping you, you should seek a second opinion as there seems to be something going on here.