Have you noticed any issues with your hearing? It might be time to visit an audiologist… But what exactly do these hearing experts do?

What is an audiologist?

Audiologists are healthcare professionals who specialise in identifying, diagnosing and managing hearing and balance disorders in people of all ages. 

Treatment may include counselling, rehabilitation, hearing aids or other assistive devices. Audiologists also play an important role in educating patients and their families about how to prevent and manage hearing and balance disorders.

What can an audiologist help with?

Audiologists help identify the cause of hearing loss and recommend treatments. They can also fit and dispense hearing aids, and they provide counselling on how to manage hearing loss and the impact it has on daily life.

Hearing tests

An audiologist can carry out a hearing test to understand the extent of a patient’s hearing loss. They’ll expose the patient’s ears to a range of frequencies to see how sensitive each ear is. The results will usually demonstrate hearing levels in the form of a graph. 

After a hearing test, an audiologist will be able to determine how severe a patient’s hearing loss is, and whether or not they need treatment.

Tinnitus relief

If somebody is experiencing tinnitus – or ringing in the ears – an audiologist can help. 

The first step is to schedule a hearing test. This will help to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, such as hearing loss. If tinnitus is diagnosed, the audiologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan. This may include sound therapy, counselling, and in some cases, a hearing aid. 

Wax removal

An audiologist can also help with wax removal. They use a variety of techniques to remove earwax, including softening agents, suction, irrigation, and manual removal. 

They may also use specialised earwax removal devices, such as curettes or forceps. In most cases, earwax removal is a simple and safe procedure. 

Hearing aid fittings

If you decide to move forward with using a hearing aid, the audiologist will help you select the right device and ensure that it is properly fitted. 

There are many types of hearing aids. Over-the-ear hearing aids are typically more comfortable and better for patients with extensive hearing loss. And in-ear hearing headphones are more discrete and can help with conditions like tinnitus. 

A hearing specialist will help a patient find the best hearing aid for their needs, and provide guidance on how to use and care for it.

Help with balance issues

Did you know that hearing problems and balance issues are often connected? Audiologists use a variety of tests to assess balance, including special instruments that measure how well you walk and how you react to various stimuli.

To check your balance, an audiologist will check your hearing function at different frequencies. 

Sometimes, balance issues can be due to an underlying medical condition. In these cases, the audiologist will work with your medical team to develop a treatment plan that addresses the root cause and the symptoms.

Advice and support

One of the most important services an audiologist can provide is advice and support. Audiologists are able to offer objective advice on the best course of treatment for each individual, based on the results of their hearing test. 

They can also provide information on the different types of hearing aid available, and help patients choose the most suitable device for their needs. Audiologists can also offer ongoing support and advice to patients as they adjust to living with a hearing aid. 

Find local audiologists with SpotDif

If you’re suffering from hearing loss but are unsure where you can seek help and advice, find a local audiologist with SpotDif. We compare prices from hundreds of hearing experts in your area so you can get specialist support at a great price.

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