An audiologist can diagnose, prevent, and treat hearing disorders, tinnitus, balance, and vestibular issues. They take part in the hearing aid selection process as well as the programming and fitting of the devices. Additionally, audiologists can perform professional ear cleaning/earwax removal, diagnose and treat ear infections, and provide auditory rehabilitation.
Audiologist vs. hearing aid specialist
A hearing aid specialist can perform a simple hearing evaluation and fit you with a hearing aid. A wider range of hearing, and balance, as well as other audiological problems, can be assessed and diagnosed by audiologists.
The medical experts responsible for identifying the underlying etiology of hearing loss are audiologists since they are trained and exposed to the anatomy of hearing loss. Contrarily, a hearing aid specialist is only majorly concerned with conducting hearing tests to fit hearing aids.
Audiologist vs. hearing aid dispenser
Professionals who assess hearing and provide aftercare for hearing aids are known as hearing aid dispensers (HADs). Hearing aid dispensers should be licensed and certified in order to use hearing technology. A wider variety of auditory and balance problems can be assessed and diagnosed by audiologists.
For treatments that are more closely tied to medicine, such as balance issues, earwax impaction/blockage, and hearing loss brought on by exposure to noise, an audiologist may be more competent to handle the said issues. Both professionals are competent in fitting and adjusting hearing aids as well as performing maintenance, cleaning, and repairs.
What services do audiologists offer?
Audiologists are trained and knowledgeable to perform a wide range of hearing aid services such as:
- Hearing aid fittings: Hearing aid fittings help ensure that the technology addresses your unique hearing loss in the most effective manner possible. During a hearing aid fitting, you will be given important device care and instructions including how to insert and remove them, how to replace or recharge the batteries, and most importantly, how to keep them clean and dry.
Hearing aid fittings are equally as important as getting your hearing tested. During this session, your audiologist will determine if your hearing aids are giving the appropriate level of amplification and will ensure that they are fitted properly so that you have the best possible listening experience.
- Real ear measurements: Real ear measurement or REM is an audiometric technique that’s used to assess the effectiveness of hearing aids. REM is designed to guarantee that the hearing aid user receives the highest possible level of audio quality and comprehension of speech from their device.
- Hearing rehabilitation: When you get fitted with new hearing aids, one of the most common recommendations you may hear is to wear your hearing aids all the time so you can get used to new sounds, also known as acclimatization. Through a properly-paced hearing rehabilitation program, you can improve your hearing and listening skills to form healthy habits and put what you have learned into practice.
- Hearing testing and evaluation: Since hearing loss can be caused by numerous factors, it is essential to establish an accurate baseline and medical history so we can come up with a treatment plan to address your hearing loss. The vast majority of hearing tests are executed in a soundproofed room or booth that is designed to block out any ambient disturbances that could have an impact on the results of the hearing test.
- Earwax removal: Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors and ideally, an audiologist will seek to rule out any early hearing issues that could potentially be treated to improve hearing, including excessive earwax and ear infections. If you get your ears professionally cleaned, you may notice a considerable improvement in the quality of your hearing.
Audiologists in Lawrenceville, NJ
Oracle Hearing Center has expert audiologists in Lawrenceville, NJ, who can provide you with the best and most modern hearing care possible.
Contact us today to book an appointment!