Adult Hearing Loss
Adult Hearing Loss Services
At Spokane ENT, we provide comprehensive evaluation and management of adult hearing loss, which can result from various causes including age-related changes (presbycusis), noise exposure, medical conditions, medications, or genetic factors. Hearing loss in adults can significantly impact communication, social interactions, and quality of life. Our team performs thorough evaluation including detailed history taking to understand the onset, progression, and characteristics of the hearing loss, physical examination of the ears, and comprehensive audiometric testing to assess the type, degree, and configuration of hearing impairment.
We utilize advanced diagnostic techniques to evaluate adult hearing loss, including pure tone audiometry to measure hearing thresholds across different frequencies, speech audiometry to assess speech understanding, and tympanometry to evaluate middle ear function. Our evaluation may also include otoacoustic emissions testing and auditory brainstem response testing when indicated to further characterize the hearing loss and identify its cause. We work closely with audiologists to obtain comprehensive hearing assessments and develop individualized treatment plans. Our team also evaluates for associated conditions such as tinnitus, balance problems, or underlying medical conditions that may contribute to or result from hearing loss.
Our treatment approach for adult hearing loss is tailored to the type, severity, and cause of the hearing impairment. For many patients with sensorineural hearing loss, hearing aids can provide significant benefit by amplifying sounds and improving speech understanding. We work closely with audiologists and hearing aid specialists to provide comprehensive hearing aid evaluation, fitting, and follow-up care. For patients with conductive hearing loss or mixed hearing loss, we may recommend medical or surgical interventions to address the underlying cause. For patients with severe to profound hearing loss who receive limited benefit from hearing aids, we offer evaluation for cochlear implants or bone conduction implants. Our goal is to help patients achieve the best possible hearing function and improve their quality of life through appropriate interventions and ongoing support.
Adult Hearing Loss Partners
The Spokane ENT adult hearing loss program works closely with Providence Hearing Centers to provide hearing aids to appropriate candidates. Our collaborative approach ensures patients receive comprehensive evaluation, proper hearing aid selection, and ongoing support to achieve the best possible hearing outcomes.
Adult Hearing Loss Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Adult hearing loss can result from age-related changes (presbycusis), noise exposure, medical conditions, medications, or genetic factors. Your ENT will perform a thorough evaluation to identify the cause and type of hearing loss.
Evaluation includes pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and tympanometry. Additional tests such as otoacoustic emissions or auditory brainstem response may be used when indicated. Your ENT works with audiologists to obtain comprehensive assessments.
For sensorineural hearing loss, hearing aids are often beneficial. Conductive or mixed hearing loss may be addressed with medical or surgical treatment. Severe to profound hearing loss may be evaluated for cochlear or bone conduction implants.
See an ENT if you notice difficulty hearing conversations, need to turn up the TV, have trouble in noisy environments, or experience sudden hearing changes. Early evaluation helps identify treatable causes and improve outcomes.
Yes. Spokane ENT partners with Providence Hearing Centers for hearing aid evaluation, fitting, and ongoing support. We provide comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up.