Why Should You See an Audiologist for Hearing Loss

Your ears and hearing are subject to noises and sounds on an almost constant basis. It is little wonder that hearing problems are common, resulting in 15% of adults in the US experiencing hearing loss or difficulties.

But when it comes to getting your hearing checked, who exactly should you see? If you notice that something is wrong with your ears, you should seek medical attention from an audiologist. This article looks at why you should see an audiologist for hearing loss.

Experience and training

An audiologist will have many years of medical training and experience in all aspects of hearing care. Unlike a more general practitioner, their training is focused on one area, allowing them to develop their skills more to provide the best treatment and care for people living with hearing loss.

All new audiologists must hold a doctorate in audiology (AuD) from an accredited institution. In most cases, this post-graduate degree can be completed in four years. Before applying, most students admitted to AuD programs have earned an undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders. Some programs, however, will accept students with other undergraduate majors as long as they have completed prerequisite courses such as biology, psychology, and statistics before applying.

Determine what hearing loss you have

There are three different types of hearing loss you can have. An audiologist will carry out hearing tests to determine what kind of loss you have and the level of hearing loss you are experiencing.

• Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss when the inner ear or never pathways are damaged. Typically, sensorineural hearing loss is caused by exposure to loud noises, age, injury, drugs or an inherited condition.
• Conductive Hearing Loss is usually temporary and can often be reversed. Conductive hearing loss happens when sound waves can travel fully through the ear. In most cases, this is due to an obstruction or blockage from an illness or wax build-up. Once the blockage has been removed, hearing is restored. This type of loss is more common in children who suffer from frequent ear infections. Resolutions can be achieved via medication or surgery.
• Mixed hearing loss is a mixture of both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. Your audiologist can determine the exact reason for your hearing loss to find the right type of hearing aid for you.

Knowledge of hearing aids

An audiologist will have in-depth knowledge of the treatments and devices available for hearing loss. Upon your initial consultation and hearing test, an audiologist will be able to determine the best course of action for your hearing loss.

If they determine your hearing concerns are due to an illness, they can refer you back to your doctor for treatment; however, if you have permanent hearing loss, they will be able to provide you with a more personalized hearing care plan and talk you through your options when it comes to hearing aids. Based on your lifestyle and hearing requirements, they can work with you to recommend the best hearing aids for you.

An audiologist is an expert in hearing care and hearing loss, and if you are concerned you have hearing loss, you should consult with an audiologist to find out your options.