What Conditions Can an Audiologist Treat?

By definition, audiologists deal with all manner of auditory disorders using creativity, problem-solving and, of course, a whole load of know-how. For the sake of improved and lasting ear health, yearly appointments here are equally as crucial as other calendar events, like our annual dental checkups. 

Even between these standard check, though, many patients find themselves in the audiologist’s waiting room, and the reasons vary greatly. Yet, many of us remain unsure exactly what audiologists can treat. This can lead to delays that quite often leave problems to escalate.

To ensure that you never put off an audiology appointment again, we’re going to consider what exactly audiologists can treat. That way, you’ll know precisely when to book an appointment and why! 

Hearing loss

Hearing loss of all kinds is at the heart of everything an audiologist does. Whether you’re experiencing sudden sensorineural hearing loss or a more gradual conductive hearing loss, an audiologist can help you to address the issue. In cases of sudden hearing loss, seeking an appointment as soon as possible is key, but even gradual hearing issues need attention. Signs that an audiologist could help you include: 

• Difficulty hearing conversations
• Having to turn up the television
• Avoiding social situations due to hearing inability

By assessing the problem using audiometry tests, audiologists can recommend hearing aids and more that will help to manage the issue while maintaining the best possible ear health at all times.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is an increasingly common problem, experienced by as many as 25 million Americans a year. Characterized by inner-ear sounds such as whistling or ringing when there’s no external noise, this is a problem that typically represents deeper hearing complications. As well as providing tinnitus-specific solutions such as masking devices, audiologist investigations can help to uncover the reasoning behind tinnitus, making treatment possible for conditions you might not recognize otherwise. 

Infection

Ear infections can cause some horrific and debilitating symptoms, including significant balance issues, high temperatures and discomfort. By conducting inner-ear tests such as an otoscopy, an audiologist can diagnose infection and determine how severe the issue is. They can then either work with you to offset any damage with hearing aids. Equally, they can either refer you for further treatment or recommend over-the-counter treatments that should help to prevent further problems. 

Impacted earwax

Sometimes, hearing complications come about due to a simple overproduction of earwax. This then becomes impacted in the ear and can lead to the same discomfort, dizziness and general hearing loss that infections often cause. Again, this is a problem that audiologists can confirm and treat. Namely, they can remove wax manually using a device called a curette. This is the safest possible way to treat such an issue, and your audiologist will also be able to recognize any further problems in the process.

In short – if it’s to do with your ears, an audiologist can treat it. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or hearing loss, you certainly shouldn’t hesitate to book an appointment.