If someone you know and love
is having trouble hearing,
their doctor may refer them
to see a hearing specialist
called an audiologist.
If theyre nervous about seeing
a new doctor, you can assure
them that theres nothing
to worry about.
Audiologists are trained
and licensed professionals who
care for people of all ages
with hearing or balance
problems.
To prepare for the appointment,
help them make a list
of their symptoms,
medical info, work history,
and any questions they have.
And offer to go with them
for support.
At the appointment,
the audiologist will ask
a few simple questions
and then look inside their ears
using a device called
an otoscope.
The audiologist may also perform
a series of hearing tests.
In one type of test, your friend
or family member will be asked
to wear headphones and respond
when they hear a sound.
Once the cause and severity
of their hearing loss is known,
there are treatments that can
help, like ear wax removal,
hearing aids, or surgery.
Getting treatment can greatly
improve your loved ones
quality of life.
And making sure they see
an audiologist is the very first
step!
