Audiologists work with people who have
hearing, balance, and related ear problems. They examine
individuals of all ages and identify those with the symptoms of
hearing loss and other auditory, balance, and related neural
problems. They then assess the nature and extent of the problems
and help the individuals manage them. Using audiometers,
computers, and other testing devices, they measure the loudness
at which a person begins to hear sounds, the ability to
distinguish between sounds, and the impact of hearing loss or
balance problems on an individual’s daily life. Audiologists
interpret these results and may coordinate them with medical,
educational, and psychological information to make a diagnosis
and determine a course of treatment.
Hearing disorders can result from a
variety of causes including trauma at birth, viral infections,
genetic disorders, exposure to loud noise, certain medications,
or aging. Treatment may include examining and cleaning the ear
canal, fitting and dispensing hearing aids, fitting and tuning
cochlear implants, and audiologic rehabilitation. Audiologic
rehabilitation emphasizes counseling on adjusting to hearing
loss, training on the use of hearing instruments, and teaching
communication strategies for use in a variety of listening
environments. For example, they may provide instruction in lip
reading. Audiologists also may recommend, fit, and dispense
personal or large area amplification systems and alerting
devices.
Audiologists provide direct clinical
services to individuals with hearing or balance disorders. In
audiology (hearing) clinics, they
may independently develop and carry out treatment programs.
Audiologists, in a variety of settings, work with other health
professionals as a team in planning and implementing services
for children and adults, from birth to old age. Audiologists
keep records on the initial evaluation, progress, and discharge
of clients. These records help pinpoint problems, track client
progress, and justify the cost of treatment when applying for
reimbursement.
Some audiologists
specialize in work with the elderly, children, or
hearing-impaired individuals who need special therapy
programs. Others develop and implement ways to protect workers’
ear from on-the-job injuries. They measure noise levels in
workplaces and conduct hearing protection programs in factories,
as well as in schools and communities.
Audiologists who work
in private practice also manage the business aspects of running
an office, such as developing a patient base, hiring employees,
keeping records, and ordering equipment and supplies.
Audiologists may
conduct research on types of—and treatment for—hearing, balance,
and related disorders. Others design and develop equipment or
techniques for diagnosing and treating these disorders.
