Can an audiologist diagnose inner ear problems?

Can an audiologist diagnose inner ear problems?

An audiologist can either diagnose or rule out possible inner ear issues, or other reasons for dizziness. After obtaining a diagnosis, an audiologist can provide some balance rehabilitation (vestibular rehabilitation), or may refer you to a physical therapist or occupational therapist for ongoing rehabilitation.

How do you diagnose inner ear problems?

Tests that assess function of the inner ear include:

1. Videonystagmography (VNG). This test evaluates balance function by assessing eye movement.
2. Rotary-chair testing.
3. Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) testing.
4. Posturography.
5. Video head impulse test (vHIT).
6. Electrocochleography (ECoG).

How do you test for fluid in the inner ear?

An instrument called a pneumatic otoscope is often the only specialized tool a doctor needs to diagnose an ear infection. This instrument enables the doctor to look in the ear and judge whether there is fluid behind the eardrum. With the pneumatic otoscope, the doctor gently puffs air against the eardrum.

What is the most common ear problem of the inner ear?

One of the most common ear problems that cause patients to seek out an ENT is hearing loss. There are three main types of hearing loss; conductive, sensorineural, and mixed (both conductive and sensorineural).

Can an audiologist diagnose vestibular disorders?

Audiologists Have Extensive Training in Hearing and Balance Disorders. There are many health professionals who can diagnose and treat dizziness and balance problems. Audiologists must undergo extensive training in hearing and balance disorders and the mechanics of the inner ear and vestibular system.

Can a doctor see the inner ear?

Inner Ear Infection Treatment A doctor can look into your ear with an otoscope. They will be able to see what’s abnormal and decide on a treatment for you. This may include medications like steroids, antibiotics, antivirals.

How do you treat fluid in ear imbalance?

Your treatment may include:

1. Balance retraining exercises (vestibular rehabilitation). Therapists trained in balance problems design a customized program of balance retraining and exercises.
2. Positioning procedures.
3. Diet and lifestyle changes.
4. Medications.
5. Surgery.

Can an ENT see the inner ear?

An ENT specialist can perform tests to check your balance and diagnose inner ear problems such as Meniere’s disease. The doctor will also be able to check for more serious issues, such as tumours that could be affecting your sense of balance.

Can ear problems affect your brain?

Ear infections can lead to meningitis, brain abscess and other neurological complications. Summary: While antibiotics have greatly reduced the dangers of ear infections, serious neurological complications, including hearing loss, facial paralysis, meningitis and brain abscess still occur.

What does audiology do in the inner ear?

Audiology (Hearing/Inner Ear) The neuroaudiology program provides patients with diagnostic services of auditory processing disorders. A comprehensive rehabilitation program is available that includes assistive listening devices and hearing aid evaluation, consultation and fitting. Additionally, there is a comprehensive cochlear implant program,…

What do you need to know about Intermed audiology?

Audiology at InterMed is a full service practice offering the following: Adults: Hearing evaluations involve measuring hearing sensitivity and speech understanding. Middle ear function is assessed. Test interpretation, counseling, and treatment recommendations are provided.

Where to see an audiologist for hearing loss?

Audiology. If you suspect you have hearing loss, the first step is to have a hearing evaluation with a licensed audiologist and a medical examination with a physician who specializes in hearing disorders. Both of these examinations can be done at the InterMed Otolaryngology and Audiology Clinic.

Where is the tympanic cavity in the ear?

The tympanic cavity is the small space in the middle ear between the tympanic membrane ear drum and the inner ear hearing organ. This space holds the ossicles and the Eustachian Tube. Ear infections can occur in the tympanic cavity.