What Problems Do Audiologists Treat?

You probably know that audiologists perform hearing tests and fit hearing aids. But these professionals do more than just that. What problems do audiologists treat? Just about anything that has to do with hearing or your ears. It’s time to see an audiologist if you have any of these issues.

Earwax problems

Just as tears can cleanse the eyes, earwax naturally clears your ear of dirt and debris, moving it away from your eardrum. However, sometimes people produce too much earwax and need help cleaning it out. People who wear hearing aids or earplugs may also produce excess earwax. An audiologist can gently perform the task without the irritation that some over-the-counter treatments may provide.

In the case of an earwax impaction, an audiologist has the tools available to delicately remove the earwax blockage without the risk of damaging the ear canal or eardrum.

Balance issues

If you often feel dizzy or as if you’re falling, you may have a balance issue. Frequent falls and blurred vision also are symptoms. Your inner ear regulates balance and audiologists are experts in diagnosing and treating balance disorders.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a constant ringing sound or noise in the ears that only you can hear. It may sound like a high-pitched whistle or swooshing, sometimes buzzing or popping as well. For the millions of Americans with the disorder, it can be uncomfortable and even disturb daily tasks and sleep. There are many causes of tinnitus and your audiologist can diagnose the problem and recommend treatment. There currently is no cure for tinnitus.

Hearing loss

Audiologists do far more than just identify a hearing loss. These specialists can evaluate the cause and determine the best treatments for hearing problems. If you notice a gradual change in your hearing, an audiologist can perform several tests to determine whether it’s age-related or possibly due to medication, an injury or exposure to loud noises.

It’s time to see an audiologist if you notice these hearing issues: difficulty hearing in a crowd, difficulty hearing on the phone, asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the volume on the TV or other changes in your hearing.

Annual checkup

Just as you regularly see your eye doctor and dentist, your audiologist should be on that list as well. It’s especially important for children to have their hearing tested throughout the primary years and for adults to have hearing checks after age 55 or so.

For some ear issues, such as earaches or pain, your doctor may be the first appointment to make. But the answer to the question, “What problems do audiologists treat?” includes a broad range of issues having to do with the inner ear and hearing. Audiologists have advanced degrees and are able to do far more than fit hearing aids. They offer specialized diagnoses and treatments and have the expertise to perform specific tests to pinpoint many hearing conditions.