Audi

Audiology is the branch of science that studies hearing, balance, and related disorders. Its practitioners, who treat those with hearing loss and proactively prevent related damage, are audiologists. Using various testing strategies, audiologists aim to determine whether someone can hear within the normal range, and if not, which portions of hearing (high, middle, or low frequencies) are affected, to what degree, and where the lesion causing the hearing loss is found (outer ear, middle ear, inner ear, auditory nerve and/or central nervous system). Audiology is an important field in the early identification and assessment of hearing loss, including that in infants, and in the management of auditory and balance problems through personalized rehabilitation plans.

History

The field of audiology began to emerge after World War II, as a response to the increased number of veterans returning home with noise-induced hearing loss. The profession has grown significantly since then, with advances in technology and a deeper understanding of the auditory system influencing the scope and methods of practice.

Hearing Tests

Audiologists employ a variety of tests to determine the exact nature of an individual's hearing problem. These tests can include:

• Pure-tone audiometry, which measures the softest, or least audible, sound that a person can hear.
• Speech audiometry, which assesses understanding and clarity of speech.
• Tympanometry, which evaluates the functioning of the middle ear.
• Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs), which can determine cochlear status, specifically hair cell function.
• Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR), which tests the integrity of the hearing pathway to the brainstem.

Hearing Loss and Treatment

Hearing loss can be categorized by where or what part of the auditory system is damaged. There are three basic types of hearing loss: conductive hearing loss, sensorineural hearing loss, and mixed hearing loss.

• Conductive hearing loss occurs when sounds are unable to pass freely to the inner ear. It can often be treated with medicine or surgery.
• Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or to the pathway from the inner ear to the brain. It is typically treated with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
• Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.

Balance Disorders

Audiologists also diagnose and treat balance disorders, which can be caused by issues in the inner ear. Tests for balance disorders might include Videonystagmography (VNG), Rotary Chair Testing, or Posturography.

Preventive Care

Preventive care in audiology includes educating the public on the importance of hearing protection from noise-induced hearing loss, which is one of the most common and preventable types of hearing loss.

Professional Education and Training

To become an audiologist in the United States, one must earn a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. Following graduation, audiologists must obtain licensure to practice in their respective state.

Conclusion

Audiology is a dynamic and evolving field, with ongoing research contributing to advancements in diagnostic techniques and treatment options for hearing and balance disorders. Audiologists play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for individuals with hearing and balance issues through comprehensive assessment, innovative treatment, and personalized care.