Understanding the Role of a Hearing Specialist

Hearing Loss Management

Hearing loss is a common problem that can impact people at different stages of their lives. Regardless of how old you are, there are several factors, such as exposure to loud noises, that can lead to hearing loss. It is important to seek help from an audiologist when you start noticing signs of hearing loss, as they can provide valuable assistance in terms of treatment and management.

When Should You See an Audiologist?

It is recommended to consult with a hearing specialist if you detect any changes in your ability to hear or if you notice signs of hearing loss. If you frequently ask others to repeat themselves, have difficulty following conversations in noisy places, or hear ringing or buzzing in your ears, it is important to make an appointment with a hearing specialist.

Furthermore, sudden or gradual changes in your hearing, especially if they affect one ear more than the other, warrant a visit to an audiologist. Additionally, if you are exposed to loud noises at work or have a family history of hearing loss, regular appointments with a hearing specialist can help in early detection and management of any potential problems.

Now you know when to see your audiologist, it’s worth looking at how they we can help with hearing loss management.

Diagnosing Your Hearing Loss

There are various factors that can contribute to hearing loss, such as age, illness, injury, or a blockage of earwax. Your audiologist will determine the underlying cause of your hearing loss and recommend an appropriate treatment based on that cause. By understanding and diagnosing your specific type of hearing loss, your audiologist can provide tailored treatment options that meet your individual needs, whether it is age-related hearing loss or a blockage. Additionally, once the underlying cause is identified, your audiologist will be able to assess the severity of your hearing loss, which can range from mild to profound.

They’ll usually perform several exams during your consultation, each of which are designed to look for various issues. Some of the test they may perform include:

• Pure-tone testing
• Speech testing
• Ear examination

Managing and Treating Hearing Loss

After identifying the root cause of your hearing impairment, a hearing specialist assumes a critical role in its treatment and potential remedies. By conducting thorough examinations of the ears, they strive to obtain a comprehensive understanding of your issues while maintaining clear communication. Once they have acquired a detailed grasp of your condition, they can propose an appropriate plan of action. Depending on the findings, there may be various treatment options available to you.

An audiologist will engage in in-depth conversations, offering the most suitable options tailored to your individual requirements. This includes recommending the most suitable hearing aids and devices for you. For individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, an in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid may be suggested. Conversely, those with moderately severe hearing loss may find an in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid to be the most effective choice. In cases of mild-to-profound hearing loss, a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid will be advised for managing your condition.

After selecting your hearing aid, your audiologist will guide you through the process of fitting it. The device will be customised to fit the contours of your ear, ensuring optimal comfort. Following the fitting, a hearing specialist will make necessary adjustments to align the hearing aids with your specific hearing profile and the surrounding environment you reside in.

See a Hearing Specialist Today

Given the crucial role of a hearing specialist in addressing hearing loss, it’s advisable to seek their expertise when you start experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss. Their ability to diagnose the cause of your hearing condition and assist in mitigating its impact makes early consultation highly beneficial. Seeking guidance from an audiologist can help in the prevention of further hearing loss, by scheduling regular follow-up appointments.

Have you been experiencing symptoms of hearing loss? Schedule an appointment with an audiologist at Kilmarnock Hearing Centre. Our audiologists will diagnose and treat your hearing loss, provide the best solutions for you.