![\"Audiologist](\"https:\/\/torranceaudiology.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/iStock-1140556380-768x512.jpg\" "\\"audiologist-patient-hearing")
<\/h2>\nThis month is the perfect time to finally schedule a hearing test. Why? Because October is Audiology Awareness Month! Let\u2019s examine what an audiologist does and discuss a few of the conditions that they can help diagnose and treat.<\/p>\n
<\/h2>\nAn audiologist is a professional who specializes in the\u00a0diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of hearing and balance disorders.<\/p>\n
Most audiologists have earned a doctorate in audiology (Au.D), while others have a master\u2019s degree and extensive training in hearing and balance disorders. There are currently 74 Au.D programs accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA).<\/p>\n
Approximately 15% of American adults (37.5 million) report<\/a> some trouble hearing. As we age our risk of hearing loss increases. However, hearing loss is often gradual. Many people who have mild hearing loss don\u2019t even notice that it\u2019s happening. Others only notice it in very specific circumstances and don\u2019t think much of it, like when they\u2019re dining someplace busy like Local Kitchen<\/a>. The only way they can know the actual degree of their hearing loss is to take a hearing test. This is where an audiologist can first help.<\/p>\n Hearing tests are fast and offer same-day results to help you plan your next course of action. During the test, your audiologist will evaluate things like how well you hear speech and how your ears respond to loud sounds, among other criteria.<\/p>\n If hearing loss is detected, the most common treatment is hearing aids<\/a>. Your audiologist will help you select the right type of hearing aid for your lifestyle, as well as program them to meet your hearing needs. They will also counsel you before using your hearing aids, so you better know what to expect as you make this change.<\/p>\n A balance disorder is a condition marked by symptoms of feeling unsteady or dizzy, even while being still or lying down. Balance disorders are caused by things that affect the inner ear like:<\/p>\n Similar to hearing loss, the risk for balance disorders increases with age. Some of the more common balance disorders are:<\/p>\n If you are experiencing symptoms of a balance disorder, an audiologist will evaluate your symptoms and run diagnostic testing<\/a> to determine the cause of your symptoms. Depending on the underlying condition several treatment options may be recommended, including:<\/p>\n If you are experiencing hearing or balance issues, have any questions, or wish to schedule an appointment with an audiologist call Torrance Audiology today.<\/p>\nHow Audiologists Help with Balance Disorders<\/h2>\n
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