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 Audiologists work
with people who have hearing, balance, and related ear problems. They
examine individuals of all ages and identify those with the symptoms of
hearing loss and other auditory, balance, and related sensory and neural
problems. They then assess the nature and extent of the problems and help
the individuals manage them. Using audiometers, computers, and other
testing devices, they measure the loudness at which a person begins to hear
sounds, the ability to distinguish between sounds, and the impact of
hearing loss on an individual's daily life. In addition, audiologists use
computer equipment to evaluate and diagnose balance disorders. Audiologists
interpret these results and may coordinate them with medical, educational,
and psychological information to make a diagnosis and determine a course of
treatment.
Hearing disorders can result from a variety of causes
including trauma at birth, viral infections, genetic disorders, exposure to
loud noise, certain medications, or aging. Treatment may include examining
and cleaning the ear canal, fitting and dispensing hearing aids, and
fitting and programming cochlear implants. Audiologic
treatment also includes counseling on adjusting to hearing loss, training
on the use of hearing instruments, and teaching communication strategies
for use in a variety of environments. For example, they may provide
instruction in listening strategies. Audiologists also may recommend, fit,
and dispense personal or large area amplification systems and alerting
devices.
In audiology clinics, audiologists may independently develop
and carry out treatment programs. They keep records on the initial
evaluation, progress, and discharge of patients. In other settings,
audiologists may work with other health and education providers as part of
a team in planning and implementing services for children and adults.
Audiologists who diagnose and treat balance disorders often work in
collaboration with physicians, and physical and occupational therapists.
Some audiologists specialize in work with the elderly,
children, or hearing-impaired individuals who need special treatment
programs. Others develop and implement ways to protect workers' hearing
from on-the-job injuries. They measure noise levels in workplaces and
conduct hearing protection programs in factories and in schools and
communities.
Note: Some resources in this section are provided by the US
Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor
Statistics.
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