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Health and Wellness: What is an audiologist?
from October 2024
by Johnston Now
Submitted By Dr. Kathleen Coates/ Coates Hearing Clinic
October is Audiology Awareness Month. So, what exactly is an audiologist?
An audiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in identifying, diagnosing, treating and monitoring hearing and balance disorders. They complete eight years of education to obtain a doctoral degree (Au.D.). Their expertise spans a variety of topics including hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, cochlear implants, tinnitus management and vestibular (balance) assessments, to name a few.
THE ROLE OF AN AUDIOLOGIST
Audiologists play a vital role in helping individuals manage their hearing and overall health. Beyond diagnosis, audiologists develop personalized treatment plans for hearing, tinnitus and balance issues. These plans may involve fitting patients with hearing aids, recommending assistive listening devices, tinnitus treatments, communication strategies or referring patients to other medical providers, such as ENT physicians, for surgical interventions when necessary.
In addition to treating hearing issues, audiologists can also address balance disorders. The inner ear, or the vestibular system, is responsible for maintaining balance, and audiologists use advanced testing techniques to assess and manage conditions like vertigo and dizziness.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO GET EVALUATED BY AN AUDIOLOGIST
Hearing loss is often gradual, and many people may not realize how much it affects their daily lives until significant damage has occurred. This is why it’s important to undergo a hearing evaluation, especially if you're experiencing signs like difficulty understanding conversations, constantly needing to turn up the volume of your television or phone or feeling isolated in social settings due to hearing difficulties.
An audiologist can determine if these symptoms are caused by hearing loss or another underlying issue. Audiologists use advanced diagnostics to get an accurate view of the type and degree of hearing loss.
Early detection of hearing problems allows for prompt intervention, which can improve quality of life, as well as prevent future progression. Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors ranging from age-related hearing loss to less common issues like fibrous tumors that put pressure on the hearing nerve.
Untreated hearing loss can have far-reaching consequences. It can contribute to social withdrawal, depression and cognitive decline. Studies show that individuals with untreated hearing loss are more likely to experience difficulties with communication and mental well-being, often leading to a reduced quality of life.
In contrast, proper treatment can restore confidence, improve one’s ability to engage with others and possibly delay the onset of cognitive decline. There have been many exciting advancements with hearing aid technology as well as fitting techniques and equipment that allow the audiologist to tailor the treatment plan based on each patient’s unique needs and ensure long-term benefits.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN HEARING LOSS AND OTHER MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Hearing loss is rarely an isolated condition. Audiologists work closely with primary care physicians, cardiologists, oncologists, physical therapists and other specialists to treat the patient as a whole. Research increasingly shows that it is linked to a variety of other medical issues, including:
Cognitive Decline: Untreated hearing loss has been associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. A 2011 study showed that patients with profound hearing loss were nearly five times more likely to develop dementia.
Cardiovascular Disease: Research suggests a connection between cardiovascular health and hearing. Poor circulation can affect the blood flow to the inner ear, resulting in damage to the sensitive hair cells responsible for transmitting sound to the brain.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are twice as likely to have hearing loss compared to those without the condition. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels and nerves in the ear.
Depression: Individuals with hearing loss are more likely to experience depression, social isolation and anxiety. The frustration of not being able to hear well in social settings can lead to withdrawal from activities and interactions that once brought joy.
Audiology Awareness Month is a yearly reminder of how important hearing and balance are in regards to quality of life. If you’re having trouble, don’t wait to seek help from a licensed audiologist. Let them help you get your life back on track!
Dr. Kathleen Coates owns and operates Coates Hearing Clinic in Smithfield and Goldsboro. They can be reached at 919-634-6082 or online at coateshearing.com.
