Many people don’t realise that hearing loss can happen to anyone at any time. This is why as a part of your regular health checks, a hearing test can provide you with the information you need about your ongoing hearing health.
Audiologists are healthcare experts whose role is to work with patients of all ages to identify, assess and manage various health issues that cause hearing deterioration or hearing loss. From new-borns through to older adults, your audiologist should be a vital member of your healthcare professional team and can work with you and your entire family to ensure your hearing health is maintained.
In addition to this, audiologists can also help to diagnose and treat disorders that relate to balance and other neural hearing-related issues.
Yes. When one of our patients is diagnosed with hearing loss as a result of a treatable hearing condition our team of audiologists conduct many tests and assessments to understand the underlying cause of the hearing loss. In many cases, hearing can be partially or completely restored with the help of hearing aids or other hearing devices. In 2021, hearing devices have progressed immensely in both function and usability and offer the opportunity for people suffering from hearing loss to lead completely normal lives. At Abi Hearing, we have chosen to be completely independent when it comes to helping our clients choose hearing aids which is why we offer a comprehensive range of models and devices that can suit the needs of any client or budget.
What conditions can audiologists help treat?
Audiologists can help treat a wide range of issues relating to hearing health as well as balance and neural related hearing loss. Whilst this list is not exhaustive, your local audiologist can help with:
Hearing Amplification with Hearing Aids
Many hearing health conditions can result in either minor or major loss of hearing. Many of these conditions can be treated, however, if we are unable to provide a treatment that will restore hearing completely a hearing aid may help. Hearing aids help amplify the sound that enters the ear canal. Modern hearing aids also have technology that allows the device to interpret and filter sound which can make it easier for our clients to understand speech in noisy situations.
Hearing Disabilities and Auditory Processing Disorders
Many conditions can impact hearing health. These conditions can affect one or multiple parts of the hearing biology including outer ear, inner ear, eardrum, ossicles, cochlea, auditory nerve or the hearing centres of the brain. Audiologists can help with the testing, assessment diagnosis and treatment of many hearing-related health issues. In some cases, hearing aids and other hearing devices can greatly improve if not completely restore a patient's hearing.
Balance Disorders
Many people aren’t aware that balance is intrinsically linked to the proper functioning of the hearing system. When the balance in the inner ear is disturbed, this can result in a range of symptoms including dizziness, vertigo and other balance-related issues. Audiologists can work with you to determine the cause of your balance problems as well as provide recommendations on treatment.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a common condition experienced by many of our Melbourne clients and can cause ongoing frustration if left untreated. Tinnitus is characterised by buzzing or ringing in the ear without the presence of external sound to cause this. This buzzing or ringing may come and go, be persistent or be exasperated by different external factors such as exposure to prolonged loud noises.
What do I do if I suspect I have a hearing health issue?
Abi hearing offers a wide range of hearing health services including hearing tests for new-borns, children, teenagers and adults. We also have technology onsite to help diagnose issues relating to balance disorders as well as issues that cause more significant hearing problems.
We also offer access to a comprehensive range of hearing aids and hearing devices to help our clients restore their hearing and move forward living their lives to the fullest. We can also help with initial and ongoing hearing aid prescription and fitting as well as hearing aid repairs and battery replacements.
If you are concerned for either your hearing or your loved ones hearing then reach out to our friendly team of audiologists and hearing health experts on (03) 9326 5334 or by email at info@abihearing.com.au.
There are a few different types of Bulk Billed Hearing Tests. The most common type is an audio diagnostic test, which is used to screen for hearing loss. This type of test usually takes around 30 minutes to complete.
If you are interested in getting a Bulk Billed Hearing Test, talk to the team at Abi Hearing. They will be able to tell you if you are eligible for a test and book your appointment at our Bundoora Audiologist Clinic.
The entire team at Abi Hearing looks forward to meeting you. We are ready to answer your questions, fully understand your hearing challenges, and introduce you to exciting new technologies that can give you the excellent hearing you've been wanting.
A hearing aid is a device worn behind the ear, in the outer ear canal, or in the middle ear to amplify sounds. It can be used to improve mild to moderately-severe losses due to sensorineural hearing impairment and conductive hearing impairment. Some hearing aids also have a built-in T-coil (telecoil) which can be used to improve the listening experience for people with single-sided deafness, or when there is a lot of noise present.
Hearing aids make it possible for people with mild to severe hearing loss to hear sounds more clearly. There are different types of hearing aids that can be used in either one or both ears.
A digital hearing aid is an electronic device that amplifies sound. Digital hearing aids convert sound waves into electrical signals that are then amplified. This type of hearing aid is a more modern technology offering greater benefits to users.
If you have trouble hearing, or if people complain that you're turning the TV volume up too high, you may need a hearing aid. A hearing test can confirm whether you have a problem.
Your audiologist will help you choose the type of hearing aid that's best suited for your needs and lifestyle. Factors that will be considered include the severity of your hearing loss, your listening environment, and your budget.
The four main types of hearing aids are:
1. Behind-the-ear (BTE)
This is the most common type of hearing aid. It sits behind the ear and has a clear plastic tube that goes down into the ear canal. BTEs are available in a variety of styles and colors, and are the most durable type of hearing aid.
2. In-the-ear (ITE)
This type of hearing aid is custom made to fit snugly in the outer part of your ear. ITEs are less visible than BTEs, but they may not be as durable.
3. In-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-the canal (CIC)
These are the smallest and most discreet type of hearing aid. ITCs and CICs sit in the ear canal and are not visible once they are in place. They can be more difficult to adjust than other types of hearing aids.
4. Invisible Hearing Aid (IHA)
An invisible hearing aid is designed to be worn for extended periods of time to minimise the hassle of managing your hearing health. The devices are inserted deep into the canal, by a qualified Audiologist and remain there for their lifecycle.
The different parts of a hearing aid include:
1. The microphone
This is the part of the hearing aid that picks up sound from the environment.
2. The amplifier
This part of the hearing aid increases the volume of sound that is picked up by the microphone.
3. The receiver
This is the part of the hearing aid that sends sound to your ear.
4. The battery
This powers the hearing aid. Hearing aids use either disposable or rechargeable batteries.
5. The processor
This controls how the hearing aid sounds and adjusts to different environments.
6. The casing
This is the outer shell of the hearing Aid.
There are many different features that you can choose from when you buy a hearing aid. Some common features include:
1. Volume control
This lets you adjust how loud or soft the sound is coming through the hearing aid.
2. Tone control
This allows you to adjust the tone of the sound, making it sound more natural.
3. Noise reduction
This feature reduces background noise, making it easier to hear conversation.
4. Directional microphones
This feature allows you to adjust the hearing aid so that it picks up sound from the front, making it easier to hear in noisy environments.
5. Telecoil
This is a special setting that helps you hear better on the telephone and in places where there is a loop system set up (such as a movie theatre or museum).
There are two main types of hearing loss: conductive and sensorineural.
1. Conductive hearing loss
This type of hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the structure of the ear or the way that sound waves are conducted through the ear. Conductive hearing loss can be caused by things like wax build-up, infection, or damage to the ear.
2. Sensorineural hearing loss
This type of hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the inner ear or the way that the brain interprets sound. Sensorineural hearing loss can be caused by things like age-related hearing loss, noise exposure, or injury.
There are many benefits to using a hearing aid. Some of the most important benefits include:
1. Improved communication
Hearing aids help you hear better in both quiet and noisy environments, making it easier to communicate with others.
2. Improved quality of life
Hearing aids can help you stay connected to your loved ones and participate in activities that you enjoy.
3. Improved safety
Hearing aids help you hear warning signals and other important sounds, making it easier to stay safe in your environment.
4. Improved mental health
Research has shown that using a hearing aid can improve your mood and overall well-being.
5. Improved self-confidence
Using a hearing aid can help you feel more confident and social, which can lead to a better quality of life.
6. Reduces the risk of developing dementia
Research has shown that using a hearing aid can reduce the risk of developing dementia by up to 50%.
7. Reduces the risk of falling
Hearing aids help you hear better in your environment, which can help you stay safe when walking or climbing stairs.
8. Reduces the risk of social isolation
Hearing loss can often lead to social isolation, but using a hearing aid can help you connect with others and stay involved in your community.
9. Affordable
Many health insurance plans cover the cost of hearing aids, making them more affordable for those who need them.
10. Customizable
Hearing aids come in many different styles and colours, so you can find one that fits your personality and lifestyle.
We all know that hearing loss can cause many problems. It can be a serious issue for those who work in noisy environments, in the office or on the construction site, or an inconvenience for someone wanting to tune into their favourite TV show. If you have any of the following symptoms, it is time to schedule an appointment with your audiologist:
Any noticeable change in your hearing
You have a hearing loss that is severe enough to interfere with your life
You have tinnitus
You have sudden and unexplained hearing loss
You are not able to hear a conversation from across the room or in a quiet room
You are missing conversations on your Phone or in the car
You experience dizziness, vertigo, or ringing in the ears
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment with your audiologist. The sooner you get treatment, the easier it will be to manage your symptoms and the less they will impact your life.
There is no evidence to suggest that properly fitted hearing aids can cause vertigo. However, if you are experiencing vertigo or other dizziness-related symptoms, it is important to speak with your audiologist. There may be another underlying cause for your symptoms that needs to be addressed.
Hearing aids do not need to be replaced on a regular basis. However, over time they may start to lose their effectiveness or become damaged. If you notice that your hearing aids are not working as well as they used to or if they are damaged, it is important to see your audiologist for a replacement.
There is no evidence to suggest that properly fitted hearing aids can cause headaches. However, if you are experiencing headaches, it is important to speak with your audiologist. There may be another underlying cause for your symptoms that needs to be addressed.
Most hearing aids are not completely waterproof, but most models come with a water-resistant coatings that can protect them from light rain or accidental exposure to water. It is important to remove your hearing aids before swimming or showering.
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54 Electra Street,
Williamstown, Victoria
3016
Business Hours:
Monday to Friday
9.00am to 5.00pm
Phone: (03) 9399 9536
Email: info@abihearing.com.au
Suite 228/55 Flemington Rd,
North Melbourne, Victoria
3051
Business Hours:
Tuesdays and Fridays
9.00am to 5.00pm
Phone: (03) 9326 5334
Email: info@abihearing.com.au