Ms. Ears Questions and Answers

Questions about Audiologists, Dispensers, Clinics, Doctors, ENT's and Specialists from real people and answered by real audiologists

• What is an audiologist?
• I have had my hearing tested. Should I get a second opinion? If so, from an ENT or another audiologist? Are audiologists licensed doctors?
• Wouldn't a doctor automatically know if I have a hearing problem?
• I have developed a permanent ringing in my ears. What type of doctor should I see?

QUESTION: What is an audiologist?

ANSWER: An audiologist is someone who has a Masters or Ph. D. degree from an approved university in the area of human hearing. They learn hearing testing for diagnostic purposes and to be able to prescribe hearing aids. They may also fit hearing aids and counsel the hearing impaired. Some audiologists work with the deaf in an educational setting, and others may work with children in schools. Audiologists work closely with many doctors in providing help to the hard of hearing. Sincerely, Ms Ears.

QUESTION: I have seen an audiologist and have been tested. Is it a wise idea to get a second opinion before buying a hearing aid? If so, whom should the second opinion come from? An ENT doctor or another audiologist? Are audiologists licensed doctors?

ANSWER: First, audiologists are not licensed doctors. An audiologist has a Masters or Ph.D. degree from a university. Most states and many countries require that an audiologist be licensed to work in their field. Medical doctors (general or ENT) will review any medical concerns regarding you ears and hearing. An audiologist will evaluate your hearing and recommend hearing aids, if needed. If you have a medical concern about your ears or hearing, then you might want a second opinion from your medical doctor. If you need hearing aids, make sure you are comfortable with your audiologist as you will see each other a number of times for fitting and follow-up appointments. Thank you for your question. Sincerely, Ms. Ears.

QUESTION: Wouldn't a doctor automatically know if I have a hearing problem?

ANSWER: According to a recent survey, only 16% of physicians routinely screen for hearing loss.

QUESTION: After taking aspirin for pain eight years ago, I developed a permanent ringing in my ears. It has become worse recently, and for the last five weeks I have had periods of dizziness. My family MD has not been helpful. What type of doctor should I see?

ANSWER: Aspirin, taken over a period of time in large enough quantities will cause ringing in the ears and some high frequency hearing loss. With your ringing getting worse and the periods of dizziness, you are right to seek medical attention. You should see an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist (ENT). He or she should be able to help you. Good luck and let me know how it goes. Sincerely, Ms. Ears.

Select Another Category

Here are some other great questions that real people have asked Ms. Ears.

• Hearing Aids
• Assistive Listening Devices (Ald's)
• Cochlear Implants
• General Hearing, Impairment and Protection
• Ringing / Buzzing in the Ear (Tinnitus)
• Ear Blockages, Ear Wax and Ear Infections (Middle Ear, Swimmers Ears, etc.)
• Hearing Tests (Audiograms, Tympanograms, etc.)
• Parents, Childcare and Teachers
• Hearing Disorders
• Miscellaneous Hearing Trivia

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