Description
A hearing impairment or hearing loss is a full or partial decrease in the ability to hear. It can be the result of a wide range of biological and environmental factors. It commonly occurs with aging.
Symptoms
Loss of hearing, ringing in ears, vertigo.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed, Additional tests include hearing test (usually performed by an audiologist).
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Audiology studies
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Otology and Neurotology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed, Additional tests include hearing test (usually performed by an audiologist).
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Audiology studies
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Otology and Neurotology
Treatment
Identifying the type and cause of the hearing loss leads to the treatment needs. A hearing aid may be required.