What is Audiology?
Audiology is the science of hearing, balance, and related disorders, and audiologists and audiometrists are specialists in the field.
Audiologists and audiometrists test hearing and treat people with hearing loss, as well as advising on prevention of hearing loss. Audiologists can also test and advise on auditory processing, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and balance problems.
Infants, children and adults can all have their hearing tested.
Treating hearing loss can include hearing aids or other assistive devices, implantable devices, and specialised advice such as counselling and listening strategies.
Some hearing and balance problems require referral to another medical professional like your GP or an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist for treatment.
Audiologists and audiometrists work closely with other specialists such as GPs, ENTs, hearing therapists, speech therapists, advisors on deaf children, and paediatricians.