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Who is an audiologist?

Audiologists are specialists who help people of all ages with hearing and balance problems. They check for hearing loss, provide treatments, and work alongside other healthcare providers to improve hearing. Audiologists also educate on preventing hearing loss and may recommend protective devices. They are experts in selecting and fitting hearing aids and other devices to improve hearing. 

Audiologists also contribute to research to prevent, identify, and manage hearing loss and balance issues. They treat common conditions like sensorineural hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss. They can also help with symptoms such as a ringing sound in the ears (tinnitus), vertigo, and dizziness. Additionally, audiologists assist with genetic hearing loss and conditions like congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.

If you're concerned about your hearing, an audiologist can assist you and provide personalized care to address your needs.

Audiologists can work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They also work in ENT offices, universities, and schools from kindergarten to grade 12. Some audiologists serve in government roles, including the military and Veterans' Administration (VA) hospitals.

What kind of education and training do audiologists receive?

To become an audiologist, one must earn a master's/doctoral degree in audiology from a recognized university. Many audiologists nowadays pursue a doctorate in audiology (AuD) for advanced training. After completing their degree, audiologists typically undergo a fellowship or externship year to gain practical experience. They must also pass licensing exams to become accredited. 

Continuing education is essential to maintain licensure, and audiologists often pursue certifications from professional associations like ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association). State licensing boards like the Maryland State Board regulate audiologists' practice. Staying connected with organizations like the American Academy of Audiology helps audiologists stay updated on advancements in their field.

What are the different kinds of hearing loss?

Hearing loss comes in different types and may be due to various factors. One common type is age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, which many people experience as they age. Another type is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), caused by exposure to loud noises, which can be temporary or permanent. Audiologists can help with this hearing loss by fitting hearing aids or other devices to assist with hearing. 

Sensorineural hearing loss is another type that often occurs with aging and is usually permanent. It can also affect children due to certain conditions, head injuries, or infections. Treatment options may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or cochlear implants. Ototoxicity, which is hearing loss caused by certain medications, can also be diagnosed and treated by audiologists.

What is the difference between an audiologist, ear doctor, or ENT?

As healthcare fields become more specialized, it can be tricky to understand the differences between various professionals. Let's break down the roles of audiologists, ear doctors, and ENTs to help you grasp their unique contributions to hearing health.

Ear doctors, also known as otologists, specialize in treating severe or profound hearing loss caused by diseases, injuries, or issues present from birth. They may use surgery or medication to address hearing problems.

ENTs, or otolaryngologists, are medical doctors who handle various ear, nose, and throat issues. They diagnose and treat conditions affecting these areas and may refer patients to audiologists for hearing tests and evaluations.

Audiologists are experts in hearing health. Unlike otologists and ENTs, audiologists do not perform surgery or prescribe medications.

Why should you visit an audiologist?

It might be a good idea to visit an  if:

• It's difficult for you to hear and follow conversations in noisy places.
• You often need to turn up the volume on your TV, phone, or other devices to hear clearly.
• You have trouble understanding people because they sound like they are mumbling or speaking unclearly.
• You experience ongoing ringing or other noises in your ears.
• You find yourself frequently asking others to repeat themselves.

How to maintain your ear health?

Protecting your hearing is easier than you think. Simple habits like wearing earplugs, exercising regularly, and using medications responsibly can go a long way in preventing hearing loss. Adopting healthy practices now can significantly lower your risk of hearing issues in the future. Currently, approximately 15% of Americans experience some level of hearing loss, which is particularly common among adults aged 60 to 69. Here are some actionable tips on preserving your hearing and maintaining ear health:

• Frequent exposure to loud sounds—such as those from power tools, concerts, firearms, or aircraft—can contribute to gradual hearing damage. Wearing earplugs in noisy environments helps protect your ears. Consult your employer or an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) to find earplugs suited to your needs and surroundings.

• Listening to loud music, especially through earbuds that sit close to the eardrum, can harm your hearing. Keep volume levels low when watching TV or listening to music, and opt for over-the-ear headphones, which create more distance between your ears and the sound source.

• Though commonly used to clean earwax, cotton swabs can make the wax go deeper into the ear, potentially damaging the eardrum and leading to hearing issues. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) does not approve of their use. Instead, ask your ENT specialist for safer alternatives, such as earwax removal drops or soft cleaning tools.

• Water from swimming or bathing can sometimes linger in the ear canal, posing a risk of infection or irritation. Tilt your head to drain water or use a soft towel to remove moisture. If you swim often, consider using swimmer-specific earplugs or custom-fitted plugs provided by your doctor.

• Certain medications, including antibiotics, NSAIDs, chemotherapy drugs, and beta-blockers, can cause ototoxicity or drug-induced hearing loss, particularly when taken in high doses or over long periods. To reduce your risk, always follow prescribed instructions and ask your doctor about alternatives if you're concerned about potential side effects.

• Regular physical activity promotes good circulation, which ensures that oxygen and nutrients reach your ears. Incorporate enjoyable activities like dancing, walking, or outdoor games into your routine. If you swim or bike, use appropriate protective gear, such as helmets or earplugs, to safeguard your ears.

• Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol and adrenaline levels, potentially contributing to hearing loss. Find different ways to manage stress, such as exercising, listening to calming music, or practicing relaxation techniques. Reducing stress not only benefits your hearing but also your overall health.

• Warning signs like ringing in the ears, muffled sounds, dizziness, or balance issues can indicate early hearing damage. If you notice these symptoms in noisy environments, move to a quieter space immediately. Schedule a hearing evaluation with your ENT specialist to assess and address any concerns.

• Smoking reduces oxygen in the blood and constricts blood vessels, including those that supply the inner ear. It also irritates and blocks the Eustachian tubes, increasing susceptibility to hearing loss. If you smoke, seek support to quit through medications or nicotine replacement therapy. Non-smokers should avoid starting, as nicotine is highly addictive.

• Routine hearing tests are recommended every three to five years for adults aged 18 to 40. If you have risk factors like early hearing loss or medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders, an audiologist near you may suggest more frequent screenings. Talk to your physician about the ideal schedule for monitoring your hearing health.

What can I expect during my first appointment with an audiologist?

During your first visit to the audiologist, they will discuss your medical history and symptoms you have related to your hearing or balance. After examination and diagnostic tests, the audiologist will recommend treatment or audio devices to help you hear better.

If you're experiencing hearing problems, here are some questions you might want to ask your audiologist:

• Why am I having difficulty hearing?
• How severe is my hearing loss?
• Is my hearing loss permanent or temporary?
• Will I need hearing aids?

Finding an audiologist near you in Chicago, IL

Finding an experienced audiologist nearby can sometimes be challenging. However, Zocdoc is here to make it easier for you to locate the right healthcare professional. Our platform features a directory of audiologists and other healthcare specialists tailored to your location, schedule, and insurance preferences.

With Zocdoc, you can conveniently schedule same-day appointments with an audiologist in Chicago who accepts your insurance. If you have questions about your insurance coverage, use our insurance checker tool for clarity. If you have multiple insurance plans, Zocdoc allows you to add medical, dental, and vision insurance to your account. However, you can only use one plan at a time to search for and book appointments. To ensure your secondary insurance is considered, you can mention it in the provider notes during the final step of booking. Additionally, if your provider utilizes Zocdoc’s Intake forms, you’ll have the option to include secondary insurance information when completing the online forms. For more insurance-related queries, refer to the Zocdoc patient help center.

Each audiologist listed on Zocdoc has a detailed profile showcasing their background, education, location, specialties, experience, and the benefits of scheduling an appointment with them.

You can also read honest patient reviews on Zocdoc to gain insights from individuals who have visited the audiologist before. Zocdoc offers options for finding audiologists offering a video consultation. Look for the purple "Video" button on the audiologist's profile page to schedule a virtual appointment. You can narrow down your search to find audiologists who speak specific languages or offer services for children.

Using Zocdoc, you can schedule appointments with radiologists on weekends and holidays if their schedule allows. Based on the radiologist's availability, you can also book appointments before, during, and after regular office hours.

Booking appointments with a trusted audiologist near you on Zocdoc is free, secure, and hassle-free.

Statistics on audiologists in Illinois

Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 820 audiologists in Illinois in May 2023. Illinois was among the top five states employing the highest number of audiologists. It had the fifth-highest numbers. The Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI metropolitan area had the highest number of audiologists among all the metropolitan areas in the country.

Sources

Johns Hopkins Medicine

Cleveland Clinic

American Academy of Audiology

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[1]

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[2]

Lompoc Valley Medical Center

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.