Hearing shapes almost every single part of family life. It affects how your child learns in class. It changes how you connect with family over dinner. It can even impact how safe you feel when crossing a busy street.
If you’ve ever wondered if someone in your family should get their hearing tested, you’re already asking the right questions. In this guide, we’ll be taking a look at 10 more important questions when it comes to how an audiologist fits into the picture when it comes to your family’s hearing health.
What exactly does an audiologist do?
An audiologist specializes in hearing and balance for people of all ages. They perform a range of checks for all members of the family, including assessing how well a child can hear and finding the type and degree of hearing loss in adults.
Audiologists can also offer treatment options and support for people with tinnitus, a condition where people hear a near-constant ringing in the ears. Over time, they track changes in hearing, adjust care plans, and help your family look after its hearing from childhood to retirement age.
Do I need a doctor’s referral to see an audiologist?
You can absolutely book directly with an audiologist. It doesn’t require a referral from a doctor. This applies to all family members, including toddlers, teenagers, adults, and grandparents.
If you need to claim the appointment on insurance, though, it may be worth getting a referral, as some companies require this for reimbursement.
How is an audiologist different from other hearing professionals?
Families often hear many titles related to hearing professionals and wonder who does what. An audiologist has specific education and advanced clinical training in hearing and balance assessment. They also specialize in assessing balance, results counselling, and hearing care planning.
An ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) is a medical doctor who treats ear conditions and related medical concerns, sometimes surgically. A hearing instrument practitioner focuses on hearing aid fitting and support. Audiologists work closely with both professionals.
When should my child see an audiologist?
If you suspect your child may have difficulty with their hearing, it’s best to trust your instincts and book a checkup. Common signs that kids are having hearing problems include:
- Speech delays and speech that isn’t clear.
- Trouble following instructions at both home and school.
- Turning up the volume on video games, tablets, or the TV more than usual.
- A teacher raising concerns about attention or listening.
- There is a family history of hearing loss at any age.
What are the signs that an adult should see an audiologist?
Hearing troubles tend to creep in slowly rather than suddenly. So, many adults often adapt rather than notice when there’s an issue. Some signs to watch out for in yourself and loved ones are:
- Often asking people to repeat themselves.
- Missing the start or end of sentences.
- Feeling overwhelmed in noisy places, as your brain tries to fill the gaps.
Tinnitus is another condition that creeps in slowly. If you find yourself hearing constant buzzing or ringing even when you know it’s quiet, a hearing test with an audiologist can give you a real answer.
What happens during an appointment?
It’s normal to be nervous before a hearing test, but you’ll feel relieved once it starts. The visit will begin with a few questions about your health history, exposure to loud sounds such as industrial noise, and any situations where you face difficulty.
The testing is all non-invasive. You’ll respond to tones and speech, then the audiologist will explain the results in language that’s easy to understand. You’ll leave with next steps, and if necessary, referrals to a physician or ENT.
Can an audiologist help with tinnitus?
Yes. Tinnitus often comes and goes and can cause stress and fatigue. An audiologist can assess your hearing, ask about your symptoms, and suggest helpful strategies to help you manage them more easily.
These strategies aren’t just a “learn to live with it” approach. They typically involve sound tools and hearing technology that can make a huge difference.
Does my family need regular hearing check-ups?
Booking an appointment with an audiologist is the best way to catch changes early. Children may need ongoing monitoring if you notice concerns, if hearing loss runs in the family, or if a teacher points out any issues.
Adults benefit from periodic testing as well, especially if you work in an environment with industrial noise. As you get older, it’s important to make appointments more regularly as hearing changes with age.
What if the audiologist finds something concerning?
If a hearing test points to a medical issue that needs further evaluation, an audiologist will explain what it means and what the next steps are. They will coordinate with your family doctor or refer you to an ENT. You’ll get a clear plan and pathway, and won’t be left feeling stuck.
How do I book an appointment?
If a loved one in your family is struggling to hear, booking an appointment with an audiologist will give you the answers you need and peace of mind. Families can book with the Hearing Loss Clinic at any time, with no referral required, across one of our 10 clinics located in Calgary and British Columbia.