Audiology FAQs

Just like your primary physician, eye doctor, and dentist, you should have a regular schedule for visiting an audiologist. Hearing loss is the the most common health problem in the U.S., and the early stages of it are difficult to notice without professional help. You can take measures to prevent hearing loss by receiving annual audiology checkups.

Many people do not realize an audiologist visit should be part of their regular care routine. Some common reasons people make their first visit with an audiologist include:

• Excessive ear wax build up
• Frequent bouts of dizziness caused by inner ear problems
• Regularly hearing a dull or loud ringing noise even when no sounds are present (tinnitus)
• They suspect they have hearing loss

As mentioned above, the early stages of hearing loss are difficult to notice and the best way to keep up with your hearing ability is to regularly receive an audiology checkup. Keeping track of your hearing health can help you preserve hearing into old age.

Here are some common signs that someone has hearing loss:

• Listening to TV at loud volumes
• Difficulty hearing public speakers
• Difficulty hearing teachers in class
• Difficulty answering simple questions
• Difficulty hearing consonant sounds like “sh” and “ch”
• Frequently complaining that people mumble too much
• Difficulty hearing people close to you in crowded places

Yes! Your inner ear is also home to the vestibular system, which regulates balance. If you experience frequent bouts of dizziness or vertigo, an audiologist can determine whether or not an inner ear disorder is responsible.

There is no “cure” for most forms of hearing loss. The condition is usually caused by natural wear and tear over time. However, treatment is still available through the use of hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other listening devices.

These depends on many factors, but there are many steps you can take to protect your ears and possibly prevent the severe hearing loss that is common in seniors. By discussing your lifestyle with an audiologist, they can tell you what things in your life may have an impact on your hearing and recommend ways you can practice hearing conservation.

This depends on the cause of your hearing loss. While most permanent forms of hearing loss require listening devices for treatment, there are some instances where the condition can be treated with medication or surgery.

First, you will need to undergo an audiological evaluation to make sure that a hearing aid is an appropriate treatment for your condition. Once an audiologist has assessed your hearing, they can recommend a hearing aid that best addresses your needs.