To resolve hearing issues, many people are unsure whether they should see an audiologist or an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist. Services related to audiology in Dubai are widely available, it’s important to understand the difference between these two professionals.
While both deal with ear-related concerns, their roles and areas of expertise are different. Knowing who to see depends on the type of issue you’re facing.
What Does an Audiologist Do?
An audiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing problems. They focus on hearing tests, balance issues, and fitting hearing aids. If you’re having trouble hearing, an audiologist can conduct a series of tests to determine the cause of the problem.
Audiologists are also trained to help people manage hearing loss and other auditory conditions. They might recommend hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or therapy for issues like tinnitus.
What Does an ENT Do?
An ENT, or otolaryngologist, is a medical doctor who treats conditions related to the ears, nose, and throat. Unlike audiologists, ENTs can diagnose and treat medical issues related to the ear that may require surgical intervention. If you have an infection in your ear, a blocked Eustachian tube, or a structural problem affecting your hearing, an ENT can provide the necessary treatment. ENTs also handle other ear-related issues, such as earwax buildup or perforated eardrums, and they may perform surgeries to correct certain conditions.
In addition to treating hearing problems, ENTs are trained to manage conditions involving the nose and throat, such as sinus issues, allergies, and sleep apnea.
Who Should You See?
If you are experiencing hearing loss, an audiologist is a good place to start. They can perform tests to determine whether your hearing is impaired and recommend treatments like hearing aids if needed. If your issue is more medical in nature such as ear infections, pain, or structural issues with your ear, a visit to an ENT is a better choice. ENTs are also the right professionals for conditions that require surgery or medical treatments, like infections or tumors in the ear.
In some cases, both professionals may work together. For example, if you see an ENT for an ear infection and they notice hearing loss, they may refer you to an audiologist for further testing.
