Audiology is a field that deals primarily with hearing, with audiologists playing a large role when it comes to hearing health and wellness. However, many people are still unsure about what an audiologist is, along with the types of services they provide. This article aims to answer some common questions about audiologists so you can be better informed about their role.

What is an Audiologist?

An audiologist is the primary health care provider for the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and management of both balance disorders and hearing loss. Audiologists study the inner architecture of the ear to understand the way that different aspects of the anatomy affect both balance and hearing. They know when an ear is working properly, and when there's a problem, they can diagnose the cause and decide on the best course of treatment.

What Qualifications Do They Need?

In order to practice in audiology, an audiologist in Melbourne must go through extensive education. They must have either received their doctorate in audiology, or a doctoral or master's degree from a university program in audiology.

What Do They Do?

Audiologists serve a variety of purposes. The most common services that audiologists provide include:

·         The evaluation and diagnosis of balance disorders and hearing loss

• The prescription and fitting of hearing aids and other technologies that assist with hearing
• Cochlear implant fitting
• Performing surgical monitoring for hearing-related or ear-related surgeries
• The design and implementation of hearing conservation programs
• Hearing screening programs for newborns
• Rehabilitation training
• The assessment and treatment of individuals, particularly children, who have auditory processing disorders
• The assessment and treatment of individuals who suffer from tinnitus

How Do They Treat People?

Audiologists can treat hearing loss for people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Almost all varieties of hearing loss can be treated by an audiologist in Melbourne, even if it can't be cured.

When hearing loss is caused due to hearing damage, an audiologist can help treat it in various ways, including hearing rehabilitation, assistive listening devices, and hearing aids. Audiologists can be found in a number of different settings. Oftentimes, they work in clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings.

For people who are concerned about hearing loss, it's important to make an appointment with an audiologist in Melbourne as soon as possible. They'll be able to conduct a hearing screening and perform an examination to determine what type of hearing loss is occurring. If hearing loss is severe enough, hearing aids will likely be recommended. There are various types and styles of hearing aids available that can be used to treat hearing loss, including invisible hearing aids that can be worn discreetly.

If you have ringing in your ears, otherwise known as tinnitus, it's also very important to visit an audiologist. While there’s no cure for tinnitus, treatment is available to help you learn to live with the condition and prevent it from having a negative impact on your quality of life.