Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by admin
About 15% of Americans over age 18 say they have trouble hearing. And, it’s commonly known that your hearing declines with age.
Therefore, it’s essential to see an audiologist for those affected by hearing loss and other hearing disorders. But, what is an audiologist?
Keep reading this guide to learn all about this profession and how they help people.
Table of Contents
What Is an Audiologist?
To answer the question, “What is an audiologist?” let’s first break down the word itself.
The word audiologist comes from the root word audio and the suffix “-logist.” So, audio means sound, and the suffix “-logist” means someone who studies or is an expert in the related -“logy.”
The suffix “-logy, or “-ology,” means the study of a particular subject. Thus, an audiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in hearing and balance disorders.
What Does an Audiologist Do?
An audiologist works with people of all ages to diagnose, manage, and treat hearing and balance disorders. They provide hearing screening and testing to diagnose these disorders.
In addition, they offer audiologic care and treatment. This includes hearing aids and other assistive technology, aural rehabilitation, and balance therapy. If you have a medically treatable condition, the audiologist will refer you to the right doctor.
Audiologists also help people protect their hearing and explain the effects of noise. For those seeking help with their hearing, you can find a hearing clinic in your area or search “audiologist near me” to get results.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a common audio problem that audiologists deal with. Tinnitus is when you experience ringing or other noises in your ears. It can happen in one ear or both of your ears.
The sound may be buzzing, clicking, or hissing sound. However, what you hear is not an external sound, so other people cannot hear it.
People with tinnitus usually have another underlying condition. Fortunately, an audiologist can help improve tinnitus with treatment.
Many people aren’t bothered by their tinnitus. But, if you experience loss of hearing, dizziness, anxiety, or depression with tinnitus, you must see a doctor.
How to Become an Audiologist
There are several steps to become an audiologist. First, you need to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Then you can complete a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree.
You also need to pass the Praxis Examination in Audiology, get licensed by your state, and complete some certifications. After becoming an audiologist, you can work in private practices, physicians’ offices, hospitals, schools, or other healthcare facilities.
As you can see, there is a lot of schooling involved to become an audiologist. However, for those passionate about hearing and research of the ears, it is a worthwhile profession.
Hear Better Today
Now you have an answer to the question, “What is an audiologist?” Audiologists help millions of people every year strengthen their hearing and manage balance disorders. Don’t hesitate to find an audiologist to work with if you have problems with hearing or balance.
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