Which Services Does an Audiologist Offer?
According to World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 5% of individuals worldwide need rehabilitation for their hearing loss. That is why you should have regular checkups with an experienced audiologist. Read on to learn about audiologists and the services they offer.
What Is an Audiologist?
An audiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, treating, and managing hearing loss and balance problems. The services an audiologist offers may vary depending on their area of expertise. They can work in clinics, hospitals, ENT offices, private practices, K-12 schools, and more.
What Does an Audiologist Do?
An audiologist can offer a broad range of hearing health services, including:
- Treating tinnitus: Tinnitus is a persistent whirring, scraping, buzzing, or ringing sound in the ear that has no apparent external cause. It’s a common health issue in the United States, impacting millions of Americans. While scientists haven’t yet established the exact cause of tinnitus, it’s more common for those with hearing loss. A qualified audiologist at Associated Hearing Professionals can evaluate someone with tinnitus and recommend the right treatments to cater to their needs.
- Ear cleaning: Ear wax is essential for the ear as it eliminates debris and offers protection. However, its accumulation can lead to a host of problems, compromising your hearing. Apart from causing hearing difficulties, excess ear wax can lead to dizziness, tinnitus, and ear pain. Visiting a skilled audiologist is the surest way to get rid of excess wax.
- Ear protection: Ear damage due to loud noises and other environmental elements can be irreversible. A qualified audiologist can recommend reliable hearing protection, especially to those exposed to loud noises in their workplace or during recreational activities such as hunting.
What Should You Expect at Your Audiologist Appointment?
- Hearing tests: Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows at least 16% of American adults report hearing issues. Anyone who is experiencing hearing issues should book an appointment with an audiologist. An audiologist will perform several hearing tests to uncover any problem that needs immediate attention. After determining a diagnosis, an audiologist can work with the patient to develop further treatment plans. The audiologist may refer you to a medical doctor who specializes in the ear, depending on test results.
- Uncovering hearing loss underlying issues: While environmental factors, genetics, or old age can lead to hearing loss, these are not the only causes. Reputable audiologists will perform different tests to uncover any underlying issues. For example, they may ask a broad range of questions concerning a patient’s lifestyle to discover possible problems that exacerbate their situation.
Make an Appointment With the Experienced Audiologists at Associated Hearing Professionals
Audiologists can handle a wide range of issues related to hearing loss. Living with hearing loss can be debilitating for anyone, and it’s better to take immediate action and seek proper treatment and assistance from a qualified audiologist before any of your hearing issues worsen. The experts at Associated Hearing Professionals have over 70 years of combined experience caring for patients in the St. Louis Metropolitan area. Call us today at 314-725-2686 to make an appointment at one of our two locations and start your journey towards comprehensive hearing health.