An audiologist is the perfect person to consult about improved hearing.

An audiologist is educated to degree level and above in all matters to do with hearing and balance. An audiologist’s in-depth knowledge and understanding of all things ear-related, means they are the go-to resource to improve your hearing. They are to ears, what a dentist is to teeth.

#1: Diagnose your hearing loss

A hearing test is key to understanding your hearing loss. And ‘understanding’ is the key word because the test yields information on the nature, severity and reasons behind your hearing difficulties.

The next step is crucial and it differentiates an audiologist from a hearing aid dispenser. While the latter will sell a device to correct the symptom, the audiologist will also be able to determine cause of the hearing loss.

For example, some deafness is caused by blockage in the tiny arteries supplying the hearing mechanism in the inner ear. In turn, this is caused by fat deposits in the arteries. The implication is that circulatory disease also needs to be addressed, not just your hearing.

#2: Communication skills

The audiologist takes a holistic approach to hearing and will assess your lifestyle to suggest coping strategies. For example, the person who struggles to hear their partner may benefit from making sure the speaker sits in a well-lit place directly facing them, so they can read their facial expressions more clearly.

#3: Assistive listening devices

Some people only struggle with hearing under some circumstances. For this, assistive technologies exist. These include apps that help hook into loop systems in the theater or discrete personal amplification systems you can place on the desk to better hear co-workers.

#4: Hearing aids

For many, a hearing device is the answer. But just as cars come in all makes and specifications, so do hearing aids. Making the correct choice is vital, or you may be left with the hearing equivalent of a mustang when what you need is a land rover or mini van.

Audiologists are medical professionals and it’s part of their training to be unbiased and make recommendations based on what’s best for you. This eliminates the pressure of sales figures to meet, and makes sure you get the right advice for you.

#5: Support your new device

Audiologist takes a real interest in their patients and are there to support them. There’s so much more to using a hearing device than putting it in the ear. Lack of support in the early stages can lead to discouragement and not using the device. Audiologists recognize these difficulties and will give you the advice and support needed to use your device with confidence.

In short, an audiologist is an expert and a professional with your best interests at heart. For the gold standard in hearing healthcare, than an audiologist is the person to visit.