You may not remember it, but you’ve probably had a hearing check before. Every baby in the United States undergoes a hearing test by an audiologist shortly after birth. Audiologists, medical professionals who specialize in hearing, can diagnose, treat and even prevent health issues affecting the ears. They differ from otolaryngologists (also called head and neck or ear, nose and throat doctors) in their training; rather than earning a medical degree, their accreditation is called a doctor of audiology (AuD).
As you get older and the likelihood of hearing loss or other ear issues increases, you may want to keep an audiologist’s number in your back pocket. While hearing loss is a common ailment, your ears do more than help you hear. An audiologist can also work with patients with balance and neurological issues, as long as these involve the ears.
Not sure whether you should visit an ear expert? Here’s what to know about when to see an audiologist.
How often should you go to an audiologist for a hearing check?
Any time you notice changes in your ability to hear — feeling like everyone around you is mumbling, or needing to turn up the TV more than normal, for instance — it’s a good idea to schedule a hearing check. “If you’re in a loud environment, it’s normal to have difficulty hearing, but you should get checked out if you’re struggling to hear in other settings more than your peers,” says J. Connor Sullivan, an audiologist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.
If you haven’t experienced hearing loss yet but you have certain risk factors, see an audiologist for a check-in. For example, if your parents or a sibling have hearing loss or you work in a noisy environment, Sullivan recommends a baseline hearing test. Knowing where your hearing stands now can help the audiologist pick up on changes later.
Should you see an audiologist for specific ailments?
Audiologists can diagnose and treat ear-related symptoms other than hearing loss, such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or feeling dizzy, as though the room is spinning (vertigo). Noticing a feeling of fullness in your ears? You may have extra earwax, and audiologists can help with that too.
Some ear symptoms are more urgent: If you develop sudden hearing loss that rapidly gets worse, see an audiologist right away (or go to the emergency department). “Sudden hearing loss, which can stem from many different causes, is one of the few hearing emergencies we experience,” Sullivan says. “Treating it within 72 hours can increase the chances of successful treatment.”
What conditions can impact your hearing?
Loud noises, like music at a concert, can contribute to hearing loss. But volume isn’t the only factor; it’s also about how long you’re exposed to the noise. For example, if you work at construction sites for years without protecting your ears, you may be more likely to develop hearing loss.
Some people develop hearing loss due to genetics. If a family member has hearing issues, talk to your doctor about your risk. Lastly, certain medications (primarily ones that treat heart disease, cancer or infections) can affect your hearing or cause other ear-related issues, like loss of balance. If you’re wondering whether any of your prescriptions fit the bill, check in with your prescribing doctor.
Your primary care provider is always a good resource for health concerns. If necessary, they can refer you to an audiologist. If you want to go straight to a hearing specialist, check with your insurance to find out whether you need a referral from a PCP.
And if you need help with your hearing or another issue with your ears? You’re in good hands. “I have yet to see a patient who hasn’t been surprised with all the options to treat hearing loss,” Sullivan says.