Frequently Asked Questions

Audiologists specialize in hearing and balance disorders. They diagnose and manage hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness or balance problems, and help patients hear better using hearing aids and other hearing technology.

An audiologist focuses on non-medical hearing and balance care, such as hearing tests, hearing aids, and tinnitus management. An ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor) is a medical physician who diagnoses and treats medical conditions of the ear, nose, and throat, often using medication or surgery.

In most cases, no referral is needed to schedule a hearing test with an audiologist. However, some insurance plans may require a referral, so it’s best to check your coverage ahead of time.

A hearing evaluation measures how well you hear different sounds and speech. It typically involves listening to tones through headphones and repeating words to assess hearing clarity, pitch range, and overall hearing ability.

Yes. Audiologists evaluate tinnitus and offer management options such as sound therapy, hearing aids with tinnitus features, and counseling to help reduce how disruptive the ringing feels in daily life.

No. Audiologists do not prescribe medication. If a medical condition is suspected, they will refer you to an ENT or another appropriate physician for further evaluation or treatment.

No. Hearing aids can help people with mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss. Early use is often encouraged to improve communication, reduce listening effort, and support long-term brain health.

Adults should have a baseline hearing test by age 50, or earlier if they notice symptoms such as difficulty understanding speech, ringing in the ears, or frequently asking others to repeat themselves.

Yes. Audiologists can assess vestibular (balance) disorders and help determine whether dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance is related to the inner ear.

Yes. Hearing aids require routine cleanings, adjustments, and checkups to ensure optimal performance, comfort, and sound quality over time.

Yes. Sudden hearing loss can occur and should be evaluated promptly. An audiologist can perform hearing testing and refer you to an ENT if a medical cause is suspected.

Not all hearing loss is permanent. Some types, such as hearing loss caused by earwax buildup or temporary noise exposure, may be treatable. An audiologist can determine the cause and recommend appropriate care.

Early signs include difficulty understanding conversations, turning up the TV volume, asking others to repeat themselves, and struggling to hear in noisy environments.

Yes. Research has shown links between untreated hearing loss, cognitive decline, and social isolation. Addressing hearing loss early may help support long-term brain health and overall well-being.

Modern hearing aids are small and discreet. Many styles fit behind or inside the ear and are designed to be barely noticeable during everyday use.

Most people adjust to hearing aids within a few weeks. Follow-up visits with an audiologist allow for fine-tuning to improve comfort, sound clarity, and listening performance.

Yes. Many hearing aids connect to smartphones and other devices via Bluetooth, allowing for phone calls, music streaming, and app-based adjustments.

Yes. Audiologists routinely evaluate and manage presbycusis, which is age-related hearing loss, using personalized treatment plans and hearing technology.

Speech-in-noise testing measures how well you understand speech in background noise, a common challenge for people with hearing loss that may not appear on standard hearing tests.

Yes. Straining to hear throughout the day can cause listening fatigue, headaches, and mental exhaustion, especially in noisy or social environments.

Hearing aids should be checked at least once a year, or sooner if you notice changes in sound quality, comfort, or performance.

Yes. Audiologists provide hearing testing and management for infants, children, and adults using age-appropriate evaluation methods.