Did you know that more than 50 million Americans have hearing loss? While the condition is often viewed as an inevitable part of getting older, people of all ages can experience hearing loss. Regular hearing screenings are a valuable tool for identifying problems early, allowing patients to take steps to prevent further hearing damage sooner.
Fortunately, nearly all types of hearing loss can be treated by an audiologist. We encourage you to schedule an appointment for a hearing screening with one of our audiologists during October, recognized nationwide as Audiology Awareness Month. The goal of this national month-long observance is to raise awareness about audiology—the study of hearing and balance disorders—and the importance of hearing protection in preventing hearing loss.
Causes of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including noise exposure, trauma, diseases of the inner and middle ear, ear infections, excess earwax and certain medications. It can happen so gradually that you may not be aware of a problem until the hearing loss has reached an advanced stage.
Signs of Hearing Loss
Signs of hearing loss include difficulty understanding others when they speak (speech may appear to be muffled or garbled), asking speakers to frequently repeat what they have said, the inability to distinguish speech from distracting background sounds, turning up the volume to levels that others find too loud and experiencing tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
How an Audiologist Can Help
Audiologists are licensed and certified professionals with advanced degrees in the hearing and balance sciences. They evaluate, diagnose and treat hearing and balance disorders in children and adults; prescribe, fit and dispense hearing devices; and provide hearing rehabilitation training and counseling to patients and their families.
Audiologists may also treat individuals of all ages with tinnitus and central auditory processing disorders, and they are often involved in developing hearing conservation programs and newborn hearing screenings. These medical professionals work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, ENT offices, universities, schools, government, military and Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals.
Offering Complete Hearing Care
At Willamette ENT, we pair a physician and an audiologist together for a team approach toward evaluating and treating hearing loss. Their collaboration ensures you receive the most comprehensive medical care, diagnosis and management for your hearing loss. We want to reconnect you with your world and improve your quality of life!
Your hearing is crucial to your well-being. If you are committed to taking care of your hearing health, contact Willamette ENT today for a comprehensive hearing evaluation.
“Dr. Strand is wonderful. In fact, all the staff are just the best. Personable, and to the point. You will be well cared for at Willamette ENT.”