What Conditions do Audiologists Treat?

Over 50 million Americans suffer from auditory problems of some kind, which is why an audiologist may be one of the most important healthcare professionals in your life. Frankly, they could hold the key to treating a whole host of issues related to the health of your ears.

Most people are shocked by the number of issues that an audiologist can treat. Here are five of the most common problems where the audiologist will be your best port of call.

Hearing loss

Unsurprisingly, treating cases of lost hearing is something that consumes a lot of an audiologist’s time. The audiologist can handle every aspect, ranging from using advanced hearing tests to identify the severity of hearing loss to finding the best hearing aids for the user. The fact that you can see the same person throughout the whole process can come as a significant source of comfort. Most importantly, a skilled and experienced audiologist will find the best way to treat and manage the hearing problems.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus affects 50 million Americans in some shape or form. While fewer than one in four will need to seek professional support regarding the buzzing and internal sounds, the average audiologist will still treat these issues on a frequent basis. Given that tinnitus is a sign of an underlying problem, the audiologist is essentially treating those issues too. Meanwhile, vertigo and similar balance-related problems can also be addressed. Taking this route is a far better option than seeing a generic doctor.

Middle ear problems

Middle and inner ear problems won’t only impact your hearing or increase the likelihood of tinnitus symptoms becoming noticeable. They can encourage balance issues and a host of related conditions, which is why treating them ASAP is vital, Whether it’s swimmers’ ear, glue ear, genetic issue or any other form of damage doesn’t matter. The audiologist will be able to evaluate the situation before advising you on the best treatments available. For a fast and lasting form of relief, this is your best solution.

Earwax and infections

In many cases, perceived hearing problems and health issues are caused by nothing more than an infection or a buildup of wax. The audiologist can prescribe medicines for infections or wash out the wax with safe irrigation. In either situation, the painless treatments allow you to regain a sense of normality in next to no time. While trying to rectify the damage on a DIY option may appeal, it could lead to more damage than good. The audiologist has the right tools to handle this safely and effectively.

Anxiety and social isolation

While the audiologist isn’t a psychologist, they will understand the lifestyle impacts that hearing loss can bring. Failing to follow conversations may encourage you to withdraw from social situations. Likewise, it may leave you feeling anxious or frustrated. In addition to actively treating the problems themselves, an audiologist can help with a host of coping mechanisms. The list of ideas can range from learning to lip read to finding ways to focus your attention or reduce the stress when tinnitus strikes.