Our audiology team conducts comprehensive hearing evaluations which include tympanometry, air and bone conduction, as well as word recognition testing. If a patient is a hearing aid candidate and decides to pursue amplification the audiologist would proceed with a hearing aid evaluation, fitting and follow-up appointment. The audiologists work with a range of hearing aid manufacturers and a specific hearing aid is recommended based on a patient’s lifestyle and needs.

At our West Roxbury office, Jessica Marlowe, Au.D., performs videonystagmography (VNG) testing to evaluate the vestibular (balance) system. Epley maneuvers (for a condition known as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) are incorporated into VNG (balance) testing and are also done individually on referral from a physician.

The first step in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss is a visit with one of our physicians, who will review your history and conduct a complete head and neck exam.

Our audiologist will then perform a comprehensive hearing evaluation which may include an audiogram, tympanometry, air and bone conduction, as well as word recognition testing.

Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears. It is a common problem that affects about 20% of the population. But tinnitus isn’t a condition itself — it’s a symptom of an underlying condition, such as age-related hearing loss, ear injury or a circulatory system disorder.

As bothersome as it may be, tinnitus usually isn’t a sign of anything more serious. Though it can worsen with age, for many people, treatment can improve the symptoms.

Tinnitus may present itself in one or both ears. The sound perceived may range from a quiet background noise to one that can be heard even over loud external sounds. The most common are:

• Buzzing
• Roaring
• Clicking
• Hissing