Audiologists help people who have hearing, balance, and related ear problems. These problems may be a result of trauma at birth, viral infections, genetic disorders, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, or aging.
Using various types of testing equipment, audiologists measure a patient’s ability to hear and distinguish between sounds (Fig. 1). They also use computers to evaluate and diagnose balance disorders.
Figure 1. Audiologist measuring an ability to hear and distinguish sounds
Audiologists analyze the results of these tests, along with educational, psychological, and other medical information to make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment.