How’s Your Hearing?
Ask An Audiologist!
Fourth of July Weekend: Protect Your Hearing
Fourth of July celebrations have changed and evolved over the last 200 years, and now no summer evening would be complete without the trademark sound of fireworks. However fun this may be, it’s important to remember that the sound of fireworks can reach up to 155 decibels. To put this into perspective, this is louder than a jet plane taking off (150 decibels from 25 meters away) or a jackhammer (approximately 100 decibels). Make sure to protect your and your loved one's hearing this fourth of July.
What Is an Audiologist?
Audiologists are health-care professionals who evaluate, diagnose, treat, and manage hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders in newborns, children, and adults.
Hearing and Balance Conditions
If you’re experiencing symptoms that are affecting your hearing and balance, learn more about hearing and balance conditions that an audiologist can diagnose and treat.
Managing Hearing Loss and Balance Conditions
There are a variety of ways an audiologist can help you manage the degree of hearing loss you are experiencing including recommending devices to aid in hearing such as cochlear implants and rehabilitation.
New! Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Resources
Consumers and OTC Hearing Aids FAQs
What are over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids? Who is a good candidate? Are there concerns regarding these devices? Is there a difference between OTC hearing aids and PSAPs or Hearables? The Academy has compiled answers to frequently asked questions consumers have.
Children and OTC Hearing Aids
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids look similar to hearing aids that are available at an audiologist’s office however they differ in a few very important ways, including who is a good candidate. The Academy has compiled answers to your questions, including can children use over-the-counter hearing aids, and more.
Children and Hearing Loss
Although hearing loss can happen at any age, a growing number of kids and teens are damaging their hearing by prolonged noise exposure to loud noise. Learn how to protect your child’s hearing.
Seniors and Hearing Loss
Although hearing loss with age is inevitable, there are some steps you can take to prevent your hearing loss from getting worse. Learn how to protect your hearing.
Reaching Consumers
The Academy has prepared consumer-friendly information to help audiologists educate the public and their patients. Learn more about the consumer-friendly resources you have access to.
Finding an
Audiologist Near You
The Find an Audiologist Directory of Academy Fellow members can help guide you to a professional near you. Search by symptom, speciality, certification, and location.
Who We Are
These consumer-friendly pages were developed by Academy audiologists to give consumers an overview of hearing, hearing loss, hearing aids, common conditions, and more. The information found here is not intended as and is not a substitute for professional health-care advice. The Academy encourages you to speak with an audiologist or other health-care professional if you have a specific area of concern or need health-care advice.
Audiologists are held to the highest medical standards. Have questions about audiology ethics or want to report an ethics violation? Find further information below.
