Audiology

Audiology relates to the treatment of conditions revolving around hearing, the ears and balance. The physicians that practice audiology are called audiologists, and in most countries (including Australia), audiologists must hold a relevant medical degree in audiology, which means these physicians are specialised in this field.

In practicing audiology, an audiologist may employ various techniques and methods to remedy hearing loss, prevent further damage or address issues relating to balance. Methods include hearing tests that determine frequencies that are affected and the degree of the hearing loss, videonystagmography, otoacoustic emission measurements and electrophysiologic tests.

Audiology was born after World War II to address the hearing damage of war veterans, and one primary method of treatment involves the fitting of various hearing aids. There are many different types of hearing aids, and new technology is improving the comfort and quality of these devices all the time. Hearing aids that audiologists commonly employ include:

• Behind The Ear (BTE) Aids
• Receiver In The Canal/Ear (RIC/RITE) Aids
• In The Canal (ITC) Aids
• Extended Wear Hearing Aids
• Disposable Hearing Aids
• Bone Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHA)
• Wireless Hearing Aids
• Plus Many More

Each type of hearing aid has its own limitations and advantages, and there are also several different ways sound can be processed and transmitted. In some cases, wireless technology may be paired with independent technology of a particular location, such as in the case of a lecture hall for example.

Ask an audiologist for more information about the advantages and disadvantages of hearing aids or any other type of hearing or balance related problem. Use our online directory to find a physician today, or call to organise an appointment with a professional in the field of audiology.