Otology

Evaluation and treatment of hearing and balance disorders.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss affects patients of all ages, can negatively impact school and work performance, and can interfere with social interactions. The loss can be sudden onset or gradually progressive, and can be hereditary, associated with noise exposure or additional medical problems. The care of a patient with hearing loss must include a thorough history and complete physical exam. When warranted, a hearing test can be performed at our onsite facilities. Depending on the cause of the hearing loss, additional testing may be required, and the physician will present all treatment options available.

Dizziness

Dizziness, or vertigo, is the sensation of turning or spinning. This disorienting experience can last several seconds, minutes, hours or even days. The source of this disorder may be the balance organs in the ears (peripheral) or the balance center in the brain (central). The physicians at Otosurgical will investigate the cause of dizziness and treat based on an accurate diagnosis. Occasionally additional diagnostic tests will be required and these can be performed at our onsite facilities.

Ringing in the Ears

Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, affects 36 million Americans and can significantly interfere with daily life. The ringing can be high pitched, a low roar, a squeal, or pulse-like. Some tinnitus can only be heard by the patient, but other types can be heard by others. The ringing can be related to exposure to loud noise medications, or even tumors. Your physician will evaluate tinnitus and this may involve a hearing test and possibly imaging studies.

Hearing Aids

Based on the cause of the hearing loss, a patient may benefit from the use of hearing aids. These will be custom made to fit the ear canal and provide the best sound improvement. There are many types of aids available and the audiologist (hearing specialist) onsite will assist in the best selection of device. The goal of the hearing aid use is to improve hearing and speech comprehension. After the hearing aids are fitted, additional visits will allow the audiologist to maximize the performance of the device and provide further patient education.

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