Audiologists are healthcare providers who specialize in hearing and balance disorders. They perform evaluations to check for hearing loss and can share information on ways to protect your hearing. If you have a balance issue, they can provide therapy to help you maintain your sense of equilibrium.
Audiologists are healthcare providers with expertise in audiology, the study of hearing and balance issues. Audiologists evaluate, treat and manage problems involving your ear, like hearing loss and frequent dizziness. They educate about hearing and balance disorders and share strategies for prevention.
Ultimately, they can help you feel more connected to the world around you by helping you hear better or feel steadier on your feet.
Audiologists work in all types of settings, including:
They help people of all ages, from infants to older adults.
Audiologists are hearing specialists who protect your hearing. They can also help with issues that arise from problems with your body’s balance system, the vestibular system.
Conditions audiologists manage include:
As part of their work, audiologists:
Most audiologists earn doctorate degrees. The terminal degree to practice as an audiologist is a doctor of audiology (AuD) degree. Many also complete a research degree, PhD or a combination of AuD/PhD. These programs take about four years to complete. Other educational requirements include:
Many audiologists go on to receive certifications from national organizations like the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the American Board of Audiology (ABA). These include specializations in:
Audiologists aren’t medical doctors (MDs). Still, they spend on average eight to 10 years total getting the education needed to become a practicing audiologist.
ENTs (also known as otolaryngologists) are medical doctors who diagnose and treat many conditions affecting people’s ears, noses and throats. Audiologists help people manage inner ear conditions related to hearing loss and balance issues.
An ENT can help determine if an underlying medical condition is causing your issues. If so, they can prescribe medications or perform surgeries to help. They may refer you to an audiologist for hearing or vestibular tests.
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You may want to consult with an audiologist if:
If you’re unsure about whether you should see an audiologist, make an appointment with your primary care provider. They can examine you and refer you to the specialty care you need.
At your first appointment, your audiologist may:
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Questions to ask include:
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Being able to hear and communicate is essential to staying connected to the world around you. So is being able to maintain balance without feeling dizzy. Audiologists can help in both aspects of your life. See an audiologist if you or your family has concerns about your hearing. Schedule an appointment if you’re having frequent trouble maintaining your sense of equilibrium or steadiness. Your primary care provider may be able to recommend an audiologist for you.
Last reviewed on 06/17/2024.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy