Other Auditory Sensations
When it comes to hearing disorders, the symptoms differ from patient to patient, which is why it is important to have your condition assessed by a qualified professional
iCAN Independent Audiologists and Acousticians support patients with comprehensive assessments to diagnose a wide range of auditory problems, including hearing loss and ‘abnormal auditory sensations’, such as Tinnitus, Misophonia and Hyperacusis.
Tinnitus is the perception of sound that seems to originate in the ear or head, without an external stimulus.
There can be many causes including ear, hearing, neck, jaw, nervous system, vascular (blood vessel) and chemical origins, the vast majority of which do not represent a danger to your body or your brain. In many cases hearing loss may occur with tinnitus, while in some cases, it is an independent perception.
Tinnitus can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that may require treatment. An Audiologist or Acoustician can assess your auditory pathway to help you to determine whether further investigation, medical treatment or tinnitus management is necessary.
For some people tinnitus feels unconcerning, while for others tinnitus can be very disturbing. Often the reassurance that an Audiologist or Acoustician can provide about your tinnitus may immediately assist you in your experience of it. It is a myth that nothing can be done to help people with tinnitus, as good management can make a significant difference to quality of life.
There are devices and techniques that are advertised everywhere, that have no scientific foundation.
However, sound stimulation, sound devices, specific counselling and relaxation techniques have been proven by research to assist patients with tinnitus. These should be obtained from a qualified practitioner.
After the assessment is completed, your Audiologist or Acoustician will explain your results to you. You should understand whether you have a hearing loss or not. If you do have a hearing loss, you should gain an understanding about the significance of it, the type of hearing loss you have, and options for optimum management.
What to expect at your first appointment
At an appointment with an audiologist regarding auditory sensations—which can include issues like unusual sounds, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hyperacusis (increased sensitivity to sound), misophonia (annoyance to certain sounds) and other auditory perceptions—you can expect a detailed evaluation focused on identifying the nature and cause of your auditory experiences.
The appointment usually involves these steps:
Case history and symptom discussion: Your audiologist will ask about your auditory sensations, including when they started, their characteristics (e.g., ringing, buzzing, sensitivity), any triggers, medical history, noise exposure, stress levels, and impact on your daily life.
Ear examination: Using an otoscope, your ears will be examined for wax buildup, infection, or other physical issues.
Hearing assessment: Hearing tests: These may include pure tone audiometry (to test hearing sensitivity), tympanometry (to check eardrum and middle ear function), and speech audiometry. These tests help to identify any hearing condition that may influence your perception of symptoms.
Specific auditory tests: For problems with unusual sound sensations, questionnaires; loudness discomfort level tests: specialised objective measures of the cells of the cochlea or auditory nerve; and auditory processing assessment may be needed. Additional appointments may be necessary, depending on what is identified at your first appointment.
Counselling and explanation: Your audiologist will explain the possible causes of your auditory sensations. They will discuss evidence-based management options, which may include sound enrichment, hearing aids (if hearing loss is present), counselling with specific techniques aimed at improving your quality of life, auditory processing therapy, or referral to other specialists.
The overall goal is to comprehensively understand your auditory sensations, rule out underlying conditions, and provide tailored solutions or support.
If your symptoms include balance or dizziness along with auditory sensations, your audiologist may combine hearing and vestibular assessments.
This type of appointment usually ranges 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and tests needed.
Contact
Email: info@ican.org.za
WhatsApp: 0649155840
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