An audiologist is an expert on the hearing mechanism. We SLPs get a little practice with their field in graduate school. This exposure to audiological education makes it possible for us to give hearing screenings to the children in public schools. SLPs and audiologists have a scope of practice that we follow from ASHA.

Sometimes there is an overlap as seen with the new digital device called the SpeechEasy for people who stutter. Audiologists have to perform the hearing test and obtain the impression of the ear canal for the construction of the anti-stuttering device. The SLP administers the examination and fitting of the device that fits into the ear of the person who stutters.

Have your child's hearing checked if you suspect a problem. If you don't get help for continuing ear infections this could lead to permanent hearing loss. If a child loses his hearing ability…he/she could end up with delayed speech and language skills. Newborn hearing screenings are a welcomed and much needed addition to hospital procedures.

Be aware of noise induced hearing loss. Sounds louder than 85 decibels (dB) can damage your ears. Normal conversation is about 60 dB. Chainsaws, hammer drills, and bulldozers can be over 100 dB. People working around a lot of noise should wear protective devices like plugs. Both the level of noise and amount of exposure can give you permanent hearing loss. When it's gone…it's gone.

If you answer yes to 3 or more of the following questions you should see an audiologist or an otolaryngologist (ear, nose & throat specialist).

• Do you have a problem hearing over the telephone?

• Do you have trouble following the conversation when 2 or more people are talking at the same time?
  

• Do people complain that you turn the TV volume up too high?
  

• Do you have to strain to understand conversations?
  

• Do you have trouble hearing in a noisy background?
  

• Do you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves?
  

• Do many people you talk to seem to mumble (or not speak clearly)?
  

• Do you misunderstand what others are saying and respond inappropriately?
  

• Do you have trouble understanding the speech of women and children?
  

• Do people get annoyed because your misunderstand what they say?

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