If you have trouble hearing, the first step is to consult with a hearing care professional who can evaluate your hearing. Hearing care professionals are uniquely trained in the treatment of hearing loss and imbalance. Regardless of which type of hearing care professional you see, he or she can match you with the hearing aid devices that are appropriate for your hearing loss and provide support to help you get the most from them.
Finding the help and support of the right hearing care professional can make a profound difference in your hearing experience.
Audiologist
These professionals have a master’s degree or doctorate degree in audiology. Audiologists identify, assess and treat disorders of the hearing and balance systems. They can select, fit and dispense hearing aids and other related devices. They can also program cochlear implants, provide instruction, rehabilitation and counselling services to help communication.
Hearing aid specialist
This is an individual who is certified by the National Board of Certification in Hearing Aid Sciences to test for hearing loss, fit hearing aids and provide care and counselling to people with hearing loss.
Ear-Nose-Throat doctor (ENT)
These medical doctors are board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology. They specialize in diseases of the ear, nose and throat. An ENT can perform and supervise hearing and balance testing, as well as prescribe medications, perform surgery and select, fit and dispense hearing aids and other hearing devices.
The best hearing aids will differ in suitability, depending on the person. Your hearing care professional will work with you to find the style that best fits your lifestyle, budget and degree of hearing loss.