What Does an Audiologist Do?

Many people are aware that audiologists are healthcare professionals who diagnose and treat issues like hearing loss, tinnitus and ear-related issues. However, what many don’t realize is the wide range of other responsibilities they have to stay updated on the latest technology and medical developments in their field. Audiologists continuously expand their knowledge to ensure they can offer the best possible care to their patients. This includes staying informed about new treatments, devices and techniques related to hearing and balance. So, what does an audiologist do?

Provide Comprehensive Evaluations

An audiologist can perform a variety of hearing tests to assess your auditory health. These tests help determine the type, degree and cause of any hearing loss you may have. The process often includes pure-tone audiometry, speech recognition tests and tympanometry to evaluate your ear function and hearing sensitivity. Based on the results, an audiologist can make informed recommendations for treatment or further steps to manage hearing loss. These comprehensive tests are essential for understanding your hearing needs and ensuring you receive the proper care.

Address Other Hearing Issues

An audiologist can help with more than just hearing loss. They are trained to treat problems like tinnitus, which is the ringing or buzzing sound some people hear in their ears and balance issues, which are often connected to the inner ear. Audiologists can also address conditions like ear infections, excessive earwax and problems with the Eustachian tube. They not only diagnose these issues but also provide advice on how to manage them and improve ear health. With their expertise, audiologists play an important role in maintaining both hearing and ear wellness.

Find the Right Treatment Options for You

An audiologist can help determine the best treatment options based on your specific ear-related issues. If you are experiencing hearing loss, they may recommend hearing aids that suit your hearing needs and lifestyle. For balance problems, they can suggest therapies or exercises to improve stability. In cases of excessive earwax, audiologists can safely remove it and offer advice on prevention. If you have tinnitus, they can recommend sound therapies or hearing aids with tinnitus masking.

Provide Follow Up Care

An audiologist provides ongoing care to ensure your hearing needs are being met. After fitting hearing aids, they can adjust the settings to make sure the devices are working effectively for you. They also monitor any changes in your hearing over time and make necessary updates to your treatment plan. If you have any concerns or questions about your hearing aids or ear health, the audiologist is available to offer support and guidance. Regular follow-up care helps ensure that you continue to have the best possible hearing experience.

An audiologist can provide several different services from hearing tests to treating tinnitus. If you have noticed any changes in your hearing schedule an appointment with an audiologist. They will be able to diagnose your hearing loss and help you to understand the severity of your loss. If you want to learn more about your hearing health, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.