AT North Dallas ENT, our physicians work with our team of audiologists to provide comprehensive care for virtually all hearing and balance disorders. Our office is outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment that allows extensive testing to evaluate the causes of hearing and balance problems. We have a number of different tools at our disposal to evaluate patients of all ages with all types of complaints.
Once the proper evaluation and testing have been done to get a correct diagnosis, your physician will help counsel you as to your treatment options. Treatments may vary depending on the nature of the disorder.
There are two main types of hearing loss – Conductive and Sensorineural.
Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the way sound is conducted to the inner ear and a structure called the cochlea. The problem may lie in the ear canal, eardrum (tympanic membrane), or the middle ear (ossicles and Eustachian tube). The inner ear remains unaffected in this type of hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss can be temporary or permanent, depending on the source of the problem. Medical management can correct some cases, while amplification may be a recommended treatment option in long-standing or permanent cases.
Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the sensory receptors of the hearing system, specifically in the cochlea of the inner ear. The majority of cases occur as a result of an abnormality or damage to the hair cells in the cochlea. This abnormality prevents sound from being transmitted to the brain normally, which results in hearing loss. This type of hearing loss can occur as a result of infection or trauma, as a side effect of medications or, in certain cases, for reasons that can never be determined. Urgent treatment is important in the management of acute episodes of hearing loss. If it is determined that the hearing loss is permanent, a hearing aid will often help rehabilitate the ear.
Balance problems may occur alone or in association with a hearing issue. Vertigo, which refers to the sensation of the room spinning, is the primary symptom of ear-related balance problems. A thorough physical examination is important in the evaluation of vertigo. Additionally, specialized balance testing may be indicated to help determine exactly what part of the balance system has been compromised. Once a proper diagnosis is made, a combination of medication and therapy may be used to rehabilitate the balance system.
Below is a list of common hearing and balance disorders that we treat:
At North Dallas ENT, we take the time to evaluate each facet of the problem to ensure proper diagnosis of the cause, type, and severity of hearing loss and/or balance issue you may have. Subsequently, our staff will recommend the best treatment option to address your specific needs.
Call us today at (214) 382-5100 to schedule a consultation or you may schedule online as well.
