Audiology

Hearing loss can occur when any part of the auditory system is not functioning in the usual way. The auditory system comprises the outer, middle and inner ear and there are four types of hearing loss. The degree of hearing loss can range from minor to profound; a visit with an audiologist is advisable to assess and determine best possible corrective measures.

Ear wax is produced in the outer ear by the body to protect the ear with its lubricating and anti-bacterial properties. Ears are self-cleaning, but when a build up or blockage occurs there are several methods of removal an audiologist can perform; left untreated, impacted ear wax can lead to hearing loss.

Disorders of the inner ear can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, and imbalance. The diagnosis begins with a physical examination. Supplemental tests and MRI are possible subsequent measures.

Noise sensitivity, also known as hyperacusis, occurs in people whose brains overly interpret the intensity of ambient sounds. These individuals may also experience inner ear pain or a feeling of fullness in the ears.

People may suffer from poor balance and the feeling of unsteadiness stemming from: a disease or disorder of the inner ear, systemic issues related to the thyroid or diabetes, a change in inner ear nerves, or blood flow problems.

Unilateral hearing loss – reduced or total loss of hearing on only one side. The causes may include heredity, bacterial or viral infections, or trauma. One treatment method is employment of a highly advanced hearing aid that sends sound from the impaired ear to the better or normally functioning ear.

Hearing loss may cause speech disorders in some. With speech impairment, individuals’ difficulty in forming vocal sounds may range from minor to the profound inability to form sounds at all.

Tinnitus is a very common condition causing perceived ringing, buzzing, whistling or chirping in the ears. It may be continuous or intermittent. It is not a condition itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue that may be related to a large number of circumstances including, prolonged exposure to loud noise, natural aging, circulatory problems, blockages, certain drugs, infections, or trauma.