When it comes to hearing problems and balance issues, the word “audiologist” commonly comes to mind. According to the American Academy of Audiology, audiologists are healthcare professionals trained to evaluate, diagnose, manage, and treat hearing and balance disorders among people of all ages.
Education and Training
Most audiologists complete a clinical doctorate – a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree. However, some audiologists acquire either a Doctor of Science (ScD) degree in the hearing and balance sciences or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Audiologists must be licensed or registered to practice in the state(s) where they provide services.
Audiologists can also receive specialized certification from the American Board of Audiology. Since the hearing health industry continuously evolves with innovations and technology, audiologists are encouraged to pursue continued education to stay updated on the latest hearing and balance health care.
Audiologists can also pursue further education by obtaining a certification in tinnitus management audiology through the American Board of Audiology.
When should you see an audiologist?
There are various reasons why you might need to see an audiologist – it could be for changes in your hearing, experiencing tinnitus, or balance issues.
Below are five reasons why you should consider making an appointment with an audiologist:
- Hearing loss: As soon as you notice any difficulty in hearing, consult with an audiologist. They can help determine the cause of your hearing loss and recommend treatment options, such as hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or cochlear implants. Audiologists can also advise on how to protect your hearing, manage your hearing loss, and prevent it from worsening.
- Tinnitus: Have you heard a ringing or buzzing in the ears that can be distracting? An audiologist can help look into the cause of your tinnitus and recommend treatments to relieve the disturbing tinnitus sounds. Treatments may include hearing aids for tinnitus, sound therapy, and counseling.
- Balance problems: If you are experiencing dizziness or balance problems, seek professional help right away to avoid risks of falls and accidents. An audiologist can help identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend treatment options as necessary.
- Custom hearing protection: In addition to treating hearing loss and balance problems, audiologists also help protect your hearing with options for hearing protection. They can provide custom hearing protection for occupational and/or recreational purposes.
- Pediatric audiology: Audiologists can work with infants and children to diagnose and treat hearing and balance disorders. Addressing hearing loss at an early age can greatly help in a child’s learning and development.
What does an audiologist treat?
Audiologists can treat all types of hearing loss and symptoms related to balance disorders, such as:
- Sensorineural Hearing Loss
- Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
- Non-Syndromic Genetic Hearing Loss
- Hidden Hearing Loss
- Auditory Processing Disorder
- Syndromic Genetic Hearing Loss
- Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection
- Ototoxicity
- Symptoms such as Vertigo, Dizziness, and Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Where can you find an audiologist?
Audiologists are trained to work in various settings, including:
- Clinics
- Hospitals
- Private practices
- Schools
- Government
- Military
- Veterans’ Administration (VA) hospitals
Audiologists in Austin, TX
Don’t ignore any hearing or balance problems because if left untreated, they can affect your relationships, career, cognitive and mental health.
If you are experiencing any symptoms affecting your hearing and balance, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with an audiologist near you.
Austin Hearing Aid Center offers comprehensive hearing care services in Austin, TX.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!