ENT and Audiologist (difference??) - Hearing Disorders Message Board

Jake_s0 · 05-23-2003, 06:45 PM

I am very confused about what the roles are of these two different professions. I went to an ENT twice now to check my hearing. With steriods, my hearing is now 60db loss in the left ear and 30db in the right. I cant understand any speech in the left but somewhat compensate for it with the right. Despite this problem, the ENT just handed me my audiogram and that was pretty much it. He didnt suggest any options or anything. What does an ENT do? Do they just deal with diseases of the ear and stuff like that? What do i do with this audiogram. Someone suggested that i need to go to an audiologist next to get evaluated for hearing aid(s). I thought that the ENT does that. How are these two people different? I probably need to get another refereral from my PCP? Will they complain because i first asked for a referal to an ENT and now i want one for an Audiologist? I am confused!

Thanks!

mlgable · 05-25-2003, 12:13 AM

ENT refers to Ear Nose and Throat doctor which is just what he is. This doc specializes in treating ear nose and throat problems. Audiologists test hearing and work out the nature of hearing disorders. They are responsible for the non-medical management and rehabilitation of hearing loss and associated disorders of communication.

They do comprehensive hearing tests as well dispense hearing aides and other assistive devices for people who have hearing problems. Since you have seen an ENT but the doc didn't tell you what options were available for you then you should call the office back and ask the docs nurse to check with the doctor as to what your options are for your problem. If the doctor feels hearing aides are an appropriate option for you then you need to make an appointment with a qualified audiologist and go from there. If the doc doesn't feel you are a candidate for hearing aides then he will tell you what other options you do or don't have.

Jake_s0 · 05-30-2003, 07:56 PM

HUGE difference.. I ended up going to an audiologist, which actually turned out to be the same guy who tested my hearing at the ENT. The guy was pretty helpful and gave me quite a few options.

Thanks