What is Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Testing? Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Testing, also known as Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) testing and Auditory Evoked Response testing, is a test requiring specialized equipment that measures the electrical activity in the brainstem after the presentation of a
What is aural rehabilitation? Aural rehabilitation therapy or training sessions are designed to improve communication skills. Aural rehabilitation (AR) is a set of therapy or training sessions designed to improve communication skills in people with hearing loss. AR can be provided by audiologists, speech-language pathologists
The auricle is the cartilaginous structures of the external ear located peripheral to the skull. What is the Auricle of the ear? The auricle, also known as the pinna, is the visible, cartilaginous part of the ear that is located on the side of the
Definition: Portion of a neuron that conveys the neural impulse away from the cell body to the terminal button. What is an axon? An axon is a long, thin fiber that conducts electrical signals away from the cell body of a neuron. The axon is
Non-hearing aid devices used by a hearing impaired individual to improve communication and the performance of activities in specific environments. ALDs include devices such as infrared and FM personal amplifiers, alerting devices and closed captioning equipment. What are Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)? An assistive listening
What is Atresia? The absence or closure of the external auditory meatus (ear canal). What does atresia mean? Atresia is a medical term that means “closure.” In the context of audiology, atresia refers to the absence or closure of the external auditory meatus, which is
Definition: Doctor of Audiology; A clinical doctorate degree What is an Au. D degree? An Au. D (Doctor of Audiology) is a professional doctorate degree in audiology. It is the highest degree that can be earned in audiology and is required for licensure as an
What is Audiometric Evaluation or Audiometry? Definition: Another name for a hearing test or hearing evaluation. What is the meaning of audiometry? Audiometry is the science of measuring hearing. It is a diagnostic tool used by audiologists to assess a person’s hearing sensitivity and ability
What is an Audiologist?” An audiologist is a hearing healthcare professional who has earned a Master’s Degree (M.S or M.A) or Doctorate Degree (Au.D or Ph.D) in audiology or a related field of study. Some activities that audiologists are involved with are the assessment and
The ampulla is a small, sac-like structure located at the end of each semicircular canal in the inner ear. It contains the sensory hair cells that are responsible for detecting head rotation. Where is ampulla located? The ampullae are located in the inner ear, specifically
Anatomy is the study of the structures of the body. It is a branch of biology that deals with the form and structure of living organisms. What is anatomy known for? Anatomy is known for its detailed descriptions of the structures of the body. It
What is a Blocked or Inflamed Eustachian Tube? Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a condition in which the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, does not open and close properly. This can cause a build-up of pressure in
What is a body aid hearing aid? A body hearing aid is an older style of hearing aid in which the electronic components and batteries are located in a single casing located on the body, away from the ear. The device is connected to the
What is Bone-Conduction Thresholds? Bone-conduction thresholds are the lowest level that an individual can hear a pure-tone stimulus presented through a vibrator placed on the mastoid bone or forehead. Bone-conduction threshold testing attempts to assess the ability of the sensory and neural auditory systems without
What is Binaural Squelch? Binaural squelch is the improved ability to focus on a desired sound in the presence of undesired sounds when you hear it through both ears. This is achieved by the brain’s ability to compare the timing and intensity of sounds between
Behavioral audiometry is a hearing test that requires some type of visible and voluntary response from the individual being evaluated. What is behavioral audiometry evaluation? Behavioral audiometry is a type of hearing test that requires the person being tested to make a voluntary response to
A style of hearing aid in which the electronic portion of the hearing aid (including battery, microphone, speaker, amplifier, etc) is located on top or behind the ear. The electronic portion is connected via a piece of tubing to an earmold, which is in the
A term used to signify that both ears or both sides of the head are involved. For example, “he has bilateral hearing loss” means that he has hearing loss in both ears. What do you mean bilateral? The term bilateral means “on both sides.” In
What binaural means? Binaural hearing refers to the ability to hear with both ears. This allows us to localize sounds in space, distinguish between different sounds, and hear more clearly in noisy environments. Binaural audio is a type of audio recording that simulates the natural
What are binaural advantages? Binaural advantages are the benefits that people with hearing loss experience when they use hearing aids in both ears. These benefits can include improved speech understanding, better sound localization, and reduced listening effort. What is the purpose of binaural hearing? The
Binaural summation is the increase in perceived loudness of a sound when it is presented to both ears compared to when it is presented to only one ear. This increase in loudness is typically between 3 and 9 decibels (dB). What is the effect of
What is the Brainstem? The brainstem is the portion of the brain that is below the cerebrum and anterior to the cerebellum. It is a conduit of information to the “brain” and to the cerebellum (the cerebellum coordinates motor function). What are the three main
What is the Basilar Membrane? The Basilar Membrane is located inside the cochlea. It separates scala media and scala tympani; on this membrane rests the organ of Corti. What is the role of the basilar membrane in the perception of sound? The basilar membrane is
A custom hearing aid is a hearing aid that is made specifically for the individual’s ear. What is a Custom Hearing Aid? Custom hearing aids are often more effective than non-custom hearing aids because they fit more snugly in the ear and provide better sound
Contralateral routing of signal (CROS) is a type of hearing aid designed for individuals with unilateral hearing loss. What is Contralateral Routing of Signal (CROS)? Unilateral hearing loss is when there is hearing loss in one ear but not the other. A CROS hearing aid
What is Cued Speech? Cued Speech is a visual communication system that uses hand shapes, facial expressions, and body language to represent the sounds of spoken language. It is a separate system from American Sign Language (ASL), and it is not a true language. Cued
What is Cone of Light? The cone of light is a triangular brightness that is visible on the lower portion of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) during otoscopy. Otoscopy is a procedure that involves shining a light into the ear canal to examine the eardrum and
What is Congenital Hearing Loss? Congenital hearing loss is the presence of hearing loss at or before birth. It is the most common type of hearing loss in children, affecting about 1 in 1,000 babies born in the United States. What is the most common
What is Cookie Bite Audiogram? A cookie bite audiogram is a description of the graph of an individual’s hearing thresholds in which the middle frequencies are noticeably poorer than the low and high frequencies. The pattern resembles a cookie bite, hence the name. What is
The cortex is the outer layer of the cerebrum, the largest part of the brain. It is made up of gray matter, which is mostly cell bodies. What is cortex and its function? The cortex is responsible for many of the brain’s higher functions, such
What is Crus? The crus or crura are the two side parts of the stapes bone of the middle ear. They are named after the Latin word for “legs” because they resemble the legs of a crab. What are the Three Muscles of the Ear?
A cochlear implant is an electronic device that can help people who are deaf or severely hard of hearing to hear. It is surgically implanted into the inner ear, and it works by bypassing the damaged hair cells in the cochlea and sending electrical signals
A communication disorder is any abnormality in speech, language, or hearing processes that results in an inefficient exchange of information. Communication disorders can affect a person’s ability to understand or produce speech, as well as their ability to understand or use written language. What are
What is Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aid? A Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) hearing aid is the smallest type of hearing aid available. It is designed to fit completely inside the external auditory canal, leaving only a small part of the device visible. CIC hearing aids are often chosen
Compression is an internal feature present in most current hearing aids that helps to control the intensity of higher volumes. It does this by reducing the gain (amplification) of the hearing aid as the volume increases. This helps to prevent the hearing aid from producing
What is Diplacusis? Diplacusis is a condition in which a person hears a single tone as two or more tones. This can be a very frustrating condition, as it can make it difficult to understand speech and enjoy music. What does diplacusis mean? The word
Direct Audio Input (DAI) is a feature on some hearing aids that allows an external audio source to be connected directly to the hearing aid. This bypasses the hearing aid’s microphone, which can improve the sound quality and reduce background noise. What is direct audio
What is dispensing in Audiology? Dispensing audiology is a branch of audiology that focuses on the selection, fitting, and adjustment of hearing aids. Dispensers are hearing healthcare professionals who are trained to provide these services. What is the difference between an audiologist and a dispenser?
What is a Dri-Aid kit? A dry aid kit is a product that is used to help keep hearing aids dry. It contains drying agents or utilizes heat to remove moisture from the hearing aid. This is important because moisture can damage hearing aids and
What is DSP? Digital signal processing (DSP) is a way of manipulating digital audio signals to improve their quality or functionality. DSP is used in a wide variety of audio devices, including hearing aids, smartphones, and music players. Does DSP sound better? The answer to
What is a Dendrite? A dendrite is a branch-like extension of a neuron that receives signals from other neurons. Dendrites are responsible for collecting information from the environment and transmitting it to the cell body of the neuron. What is the function of a dendrite?
What is digital hearing? Digital hearing is a type of hearing aid that uses digital technology to amplify sound. Digital hearing aids are more advanced than analog hearing aids, and they offer a number of advantages, including: Better sound quality: Digital hearing aids can process
What is dB SL? dB SL stands for decibels sensation level. What does dB SL mean? It is a unit of measurement that is used to express the intensity of a sound relative to a person’s hearing threshold. For example, if a person’s hearing threshold
dB SPL stands for decibels sound pressure level. What does dB SPL mean? dB SPL is a unit of measurement that is used to express the intensity of sound, or how loud a sound is. The reference pressure for dB SPL is 0.0002 dynes/cm^2, which
What is a Decibel? A decibel (dB) is a unit of measurement used to express the relative loudness of a sound. It is a logarithmic scale, which means that each increase of 10 decibels represents a tenfold increase in loudness. The decibel scale is named
Decussation is a common phenomenon in the nervous system. It occurs in many different parts of the brain and spinal cord. What is decussation? Decussation is the crossing over of nerve fibers from one hemisphere of the brain to the opposite (contralateral) hemisphere. This happens
What is the eardrum? The eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane, is a thin, semi-transparent membrane that separates the ear canal from the middle ear. It is about 0.1 millimeters thick and is composed of three layers: the outer layer is skin, the middle
What is an earmold? An earmold is a custom-made piece of plastic that is inserted into the ear canal to help hold a hearing aid in place and direct sound into the ear. Earmolds are typically made of acrylic or silicone and are molded to
What is the Eighth Cranial Nerve (CN VIII)? The eighth cranial nerve, also known as the vestibulocochlear nerve, is a pair of nerves that carry information from the inner ear to the brain. It is responsible for both hearing and balance. Which part is innervated
What is Evoked Potentials? Evoked potentials (EPs) are electrical signals that are generated by the brain in response to a stimulus. These signals can be measured using electrodes placed on the scalp. EPs are used to diagnose a variety of neurological disorders, including hearing loss,
What is the external auditory meatus of the ear? The external auditory meatus, also known as the ear canal or the acoustic meatus, is a canal that leads from the pinna (the outer ear) to the tympanic membrane (eardrum). It is about 1 inch (2.5
What is Exostosis? Exostosis is a bony growth that can develop in the ear canal. It is a common condition, especially in people who spend a lot of time in cold water. How do you treat exostosis in the ear? There are two main treatments
What is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction? Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a condition that occurs when the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, becomes inflamed or blocked. This can lead to negative pressure, fluid in the middle ear, and/or
What is the Eustachian Tube? The Eustachian tube, also known as the auditory tube, is a small canal that connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx (the back of the throat). The Eustachian tube helps to equalize the pressure in the middle ear with the
What is Etiology? In hearing terms, etiology refers to the source or cause of a hearing loss. There are many different causes of hearing loss, and the etiology can vary depending on the type of hearing loss. What is the most common etiology of hearing
The external ear is the part of the auditory system that collects sound waves and directs them to the tympanic membrane (eardrum). It is comprised of the pinna (also known as the auricle) and the external auditory meatus (ear canal). What is the Function of
Entrainment is an undesired effect of some anti-feedback circuitry in which the feedback reduction algorithm attempts to eliminate an incoming sound as if the sound is feedback when it truly is not. This can lead to a whistling or squealing sound, which is known as
A flat audiogram is a description of the graph of an individual’s hearing thresholds in which the degree of loss present is similar or equal for low, mid and high frequencies. This means that the person has difficulty hearing all sounds, regardless of their pitch.
The footplate is the portion of the stapes bone that is attached to the two crura and that sits in the oval window. The footplate is the smallest bone in the human body, and it is about the size of a grain of rice. What
In audiology, frequency is the number of vibrations that occur in one second. It is measured in hertz (Hz), and the human hearing range is typically from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. What is Frequency in Audiology? Frequency is the pitch of a sound. The
What is Feedback Supressor or Cancellor? A feedback suppressor or canceller is a technology that is used to reduce or eliminate feedback in hearing aids, sound systems, and other audio devices. Feedback occurs when sound waves from a speaker are picked up by the microphone
What is Fistula? A fistula is an abnormal hole or rupture in the window that connects the middle ear cavity and the cochlea, allowing the leakage of inner ear fluid (perilymph) into the middle ear and often resulting in hearing loss and dizziness. How Serious
What is Full Shell? A full shell hearing aid is a type of in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid that fills up the entire bowl area of the outer ear. It is the largest type of ITE hearing aid, and it is typically used to treat moderate
What is Gain? In audiology, gain is a term used to describe the amount of additional intensity added by a hearing aid or other amplifying device to an incoming signal during the amplification process. Gain is measured in decibels (dB), and it is typically expressed
What is Genetic Hearing Loss? Definition: Genetic hearing loss is a type of hearing loss that is caused by changes in one or more genes. These changes can be inherited from parents or they can occur spontaneously. What type of hearing loss is genetic? There
Head shadow is the attenuation of sound by the head. This is because the head blocks the path of sound waves, which results in a decrease in the intensity of the sound reaching the ear on the opposite side of the head. What is head
What is Helicotrema? The helicotrema is a small opening at the apex of the cochlea. It allows fluid to flow between the scala vestibuli and scala tympani. This is important for the transmission of sound waves through the cochlea. What is the function of the
The helix is the curved/raised rim of the external ear (pinna). It is one of the three main parts of the pinna, along with the antihelix and the lobule. What is the Helix or Antihelix of the Pinna? The helix and antihelix are two of
What is Hereditary Hearing Loss? Hereditary hearing loss is a type of hearing loss that is passed down from parents to their children. It can be caused by a mutation in a single gene or by a combination of mutations in multiple genes. What Are
What is frequency in hertz (Hz)? Frequency is the number of times a sound wave repeats itself per second. It is measured in hertz (Hz), where one hertz is equal to one cycle per second. The higher the frequency, the higher the pitch of the
What is High Frequency Hearing Loss? High frequency hearing loss is a type of hearing loss that affects the ability to hear high-pitched sounds. This can make it difficult to hear things like birds chirping, children’s voices, and high-pitched consonants like “s” and “f.” What
What is hearing loss? Hearing loss is the inability to perceive the presence of a sound at normal hearing levels. This can be caused by a number of factors, including noise exposure, age, genetics, and infections. What is the Main Cause of Hearing Loss? The
What is Hard of Hearing? Hard of hearing is a term used to describe hearing-impaired individuals with mild to severe/profound hearing impairment who are not deaf. What is hard of hearing called? Hard of hearing is also sometimes referred to as hearing impaired, hearing loss,
What is Head Shadow Effect? The head shadow effect is a phenomenon in audiology that refers to the attenuation of sound waves as they travel around the head. This attenuation is caused by the head’s size and shape, which act as a barrier to sound.
What is a hearing aid? A hearing aid is a small electronic device that is worn in or behind the ear to amplify sound. Hearing aids are used to help people with hearing loss hear better. What is a hearing aid used for? Hearing aids
What is Hearing Aid Dispenser? A hearing aid dispenser is a person who is licensed by the state to dispense hearing aids. They do not have university training in audiology, but they have completed a training program that teaches them about hearing aids and how
What is Hearing Aid Specialist? A hearing aid specialist is a non-audiologist who holds a state license that allows him or her to dispense hearing aids. They do not have university training in audiology, but they have completed a training program that teaches them about
What is Intraoperative Monitoring? Intraoperative monitoring (IOM) is a technique used to monitor the function of the nervous system during surgery. IOM is used in a variety of surgical procedures, including brain, spine, and ear surgery. What is the Use of Intraoperative Neuromonitoring? The use
What is IROS Hearing Aid? An IROS hearing aid is a hearing aid that has a large vent. The vent allows sound to flow in and out of the ear canal, which can help to improve sound quality and reduce feedback. IROS hearing aids are
What is In Situ? In situ is a Latin term that means “in place” or “in the natural position.” In audiology, the term in situ is used to refer to measurements that are made with the hearing aid in place in the ear. This is
What is the Internal Auditory Meatus? The internal auditory meatus (IAM) is a canal within the petrous part of the temporal bone that transmits nerves and vessels from within the posterior cranial fossa to structures of the inner ear and face. It is also known
What is Intensity? In audiology, intensity refers to the loudness or volume of a sound. It is measured in decibels (dB). The lower the dB level, the quieter the sound. The higher the dB level, the louder the sound. Intensity is an important factor in
What is an In-The-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aid? An In-The-Canal (ITC) hearing aid is a small, custom-fit hearing aid that is inserted into the ear canal. It is smaller than an In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aid, but larger than a Completely-In-Canal (CIC) hearing aid. ITC hearing aids
What is an In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aid? An In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aid is a type of hearing aid that is custom-fit to the outer ear. It is the largest type of hearing aid, and it is typically used to treat mild to severe hearing loss.
What is Impedance? Impedance is a measure of the opposition to the flow of energy through a medium. It is a complex number that has both magnitude and phase. The magnitude of the impedance is called the admittance. What is acoustic impedance in audiology? Acoustic
What is the Incus? The incus is the middle bone of the ossicular chain, which is a series of three bones that transmit sound waves from the eardrum to the inner ear. The incus is also known as the anvil. It is located in the
What is Infrared? A signal used by some assistive listening devices to send sound via infrared light waves What is an infrared hearing system? An infrared hearing system is an assistive listening device (ALD) that uses infrared light waves to transmit sound. This makes it
What are Inner Hair Cells? Inner hair cells (IHCs) are the sensory cells in the cochlea that are responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that are sent to the brain. They are located on the medial side of the organ of Corti, and
What is Insertion Gain? Insertion gain is an important measure for hearing aid fitting. It helps to ensure that the hearing aid is providing enough amplification to improve hearing. What is insertion gain in hearing aid? Insertion gain is a measure of the amount of
What is a Kilohertz? kHz stands for kilohertz, which is a unit of measurement for frequency. What is kHz in audiology? Frequency is the number of cycles per second of a sound wave. The human ear can hear frequencies ranging from 20 Hz to 20
What is a Kneepoint? A kneepoint is a point on a graph that represents the change in slope. What is kneepoint in audiology? In audiology, the kneepoint is the point at which a hearing aid’s compression circuit begins to function. What is Kneepoint in Hearing
What is Localization? Localization is the ability to determine the location of a sound source. This is done by the brain using cues from the ears, such as the timing and intensity of the sound reaching each ear. What is auditory localization of sound? Auditory
What is the Levator Veli Palatini? The levator veli palatini (LVP) is a muscle in the nasopharynx that is responsible for elevating the soft palate. The soft palate is a muscular flap that separates the nasopharynx from the oropharynx. The LVP is one of the
What is Lateralization? Lateralization is the perception by an individual that a sound is being heard on one side due to a timing and intensity difference, when in fact the sound was presented bilaterally. This is a normal phenomenon that occurs in everyone, but it
What is a Linear/Non-Linear Hearing Aid? A linear hearing aid is one that adds the same amount of gain to the incoming signal, regardless of how soft or loud the incoming signal is, up to a cutoff point or saturation. This means that the output
Lip reading, also known as speechreading, is the ability to understand speech by visually interpreting the movements of the lips, face and tongue when normal sound is not available. What is the meaning of lip reading? Lip reading is used by people who are deaf
Low profile hearing aids are a good option for people who want a discreet hearing aid that is still powerful enough to provide effective hearing amplification. They are also a good option for people who have small ear canals or who find traditional ITE hearing
The labyrinth is a vital part of the inner ear. It is responsible for both hearing and balance. What is the Labyrinth in the Ear? The labyrinth is a complex structure located in the inner ear. It is responsible for both hearing and balance. The
What is a Listening Stethoscope? A listening stethoscope is a device used by hearing healthcare professionals to listen to a hearing aid for the purpose of assessing the hearing aid’s performance and adjustments/repairs. It is a small, handheld device that has a bell or diaphragm
What is the Lobule? The lobule is the fleshy, lower part of the pinna, or outer ear. What is lobule in the human body? The lobule is often used as a landmark for measuring hearing loss, as it is relatively easy to identify. It is
A hearing loop system is a type of assistive listening device that uses a magnetic field to transmit sound directly to a hearing aid or other listening device. What is a hearing loop system? The system consists of a loop of wire that is placed
What is a Language Development Disorder (Hearing Related)? Language development disorder (hearing related) is a condition in which a child with hearing loss does not develop language skills at the same rate as children with normal hearing. This can be due to a number of
It is a part of the auditory pathway, which is the neural pathway that carries sound information from the ear to the brain. What is the lateral lemniscus formation? The lateral lemniscus is a tract of axons in the brainstem that carries information about sound
What is Monaural in Audiology? Monaural sound output is the opposite of binaural sound output, which is sound that is presented to both ears. What is the full meaning of monaural? The term monaural comes from the Latin words “mono” meaning “one” and “auris” meaning
What is the most comfortable loudness level? Most comfortable loudness level (MCL) is a measure of the intensity level of a sound that is most comfortable for a person to hear. It is often measured during audiology testing, and it can be used to help
What are Mucous Membranes? Mucous membranes are moist, soft tissues that line many parts of the body, including the nose, throat, and ears. They secrete mucus, which helps to protect the body from infection and to keep the airways moist. Are there mucous membranes in
What is a Multi-Band Hearing Aid? A multi-band hearing aid is a programmable hearing aid that allows the dispenser to adjust gain in a specified set of frequencies without affecting gain at other frequencies. This is in contrast to a single-band hearing aid, which only
What is a Multi-Channel Hearing Aid? A multi-channel hearing aid is a programmable hearing aid that allows the dispenser to adjust the instrument’s compression characteristics in a specified set of frequencies without affecting the compression characteristics at other frequencies. This is done by dividing the
What is a Multi-Memory Hearing Aid? A multi-memory hearing aid is a hearing aid that has more than one listening program that the user can access to improve communications in various environments. These programs are often called “memories” and can be adjusted by a hearing
What is Myelin? Myelin is a fatty material that covers portions of some neurons’ axons. It insulates nerves from each other, and permits rapid transmissions of neural impulses as neural signals (action potentials) “skip” across myelin sheaths, jumping from one of Ranvier to the next.
What is a Medium? In audiology, a medium is the substance through which sound travels. Sound is often defined as the vibration of the molecules of a medium. Air is the most common medium, but sound can also travel through other mediums, such as water,
What is Meniere’s Disease? Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. The symptoms of Meniere’s disease can be severe and can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. What are 3
What is a Microphone? A microphone is a device that converts sound waves into an electrical signal. The electrical signal is then amplified and sent to the hearing aid’s amplifier and receiver. The amplifier increases the volume of the signal, and the receiver converts the
What is a Node of Ranvier? A node of Ranvier is a gap in the myelin sheath that covers the axons of some neurons. These gaps are found along the axon at regular intervals, and they allow for the rapid conduction of nerve impulses. What
What is Noise-induced Hearing Loss? Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a type of hearing loss that is caused by exposure to loud noise. NIHL can be caused by a single exposure to a very loud noise, such as a gunshot or explosion, or by long-term
What is Non-organic Hearing Loss? Non-organic Hearing Loss (NOHL) is a type of hearing loss that is not caused by any physical damage to the auditory system. NOHL is also known as functional hearing loss, psychogenic hearing loss, or malingering. What are the types of
What is Nystagmus? Nystagmus is a rhythmic, involuntary movement of the eyes. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including inner ear disorders, brainstem damage, and certain medications. Nystagmus can be present at birth (congenital nystagmus) or develop later in life (acquired nystagmus).
What is output limiting in hearing aid? Output limiting is a feature of hearing aids that helps to prevent the output of the hearing aid from becoming too loud. This is important because excessive loudness can damage the hearing of the user or cause discomfort.
What is the Oval Window? The oval window is a membrane-covered opening in the bony labyrinth of the inner ear. It is located in the cochlea, which is the spiral-shaped organ of hearing. The oval window is connected to the stapes, the third bone in
Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) are sounds produced by the inner ear when it is stimulated by sound. They are a type of spontaneous emission, meaning that they occur without any external stimulus. OAEs can be measured using a small probe that is placed in the ear
What is an Otoblock? An otoblock is a sponge or piece of cotton that is used to prevent impression material from going too deep into the ear canal during the impression-taking procedure for a custom-fit hearing aid. The otoblock is typically placed at the first
What is an Otolaryngologist? An otolaryngologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, and throat (ENT). Otolaryngologists are also known as ENT doctors or otorhinolaryngologists (ENT-HNS). What does otolaryngologist mean? The word otolaryngologist
What is an Otologist? An otologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the ear. Otologists are also known as ear, nose, and throat (ENT) physicians who have completed additional training in otology. What does an
What is Otorrhea? Definition: Otorrhea is the medical term for ear drainage. It can be caused by an infection in the outer ear or middle ear, or by a perforation in the eardrum. What is otorrhea caused by? Otorrhea can be caused by a variety
What is an Otoscope? Otoscopes are a valuable tool for diagnosing ear problems. They are easy to use and can provide valuable information about the condition of the ear. Otoscopes are handheld devices that have a light source and a magnifying lens. The light source
What is an Otoscopic Examination? Otoscopic examination is a procedure that uses an otoscope to look into the ear canal and tympanic membrane (eardrum). It is a common part of a physical exam and is used to diagnose ear problems, such as ear infections, earwax
What is Otosclerosis? Otosclerosis is a condition that affects the middle ear. It is characterized by the formation of abnormal bone on the stapes, a small bone that helps to transmit sound waves from the eardrum to the inner ear. This can cause a conductive
What are Ototoxic Medications? Ototoxic medications are prescription or over-the-counter drugs that can have a temporary or permanent detrimental effect on an individual’s hearing or balance system. These medications can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, which are responsible for hearing and balance.
What is the Outer Ear? The outer ear is the most peripheral part of the human auditory system. It consists of the auricle (pinna) and the external auditory meatus (ear canal). The outer ear has several functions, including: Collecting sound waves: The auricle helps to
What is Presbycusis? Presbycusis is a progressive hearing loss that is attributed to the aging process. It is the most common type of hearing loss in adults, affecting an estimated 1 in 3 people over the age of 65. What are presbycusis signs and symptoms?
What are Probe Microphone Measurements? Probe microphone measurements are an important part of the hearing aid fitting process. They can help to ensure that the hearing aids are providing the correct amount of amplification and that they are comfortable to wear. What is the purpose
Being programmable is a helpful feature on more current hearing aids that allows them to be attached, via a cord, to a computer in an audiologist’s clinic. Once attached, the various parameters of the hearing aid’s performance can be more easily adjusted to better match
What is a Permanent Threshold Shift? PTS is a permanent reduction in the sensitivity of the ear to sound. It is caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear, which are responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals that are sent
What is Pumping? Pumping is a fluctuation in volume noticed by a hearing aid wearer due to the instrument’s compression characteristics. It can be caused by a number of factors, including changes in the wearer’s hearing loss, the environment, or the hearing aid’s settings. Why
What is Pure Tone Audiometry? Pure tone audiometry is a test of hearing that uses pure tones, or single frequencies of sound, to measure the softest sounds that a person can hear. How do you perform pure tone audiometry? Pure tone audiometry is performed in
What is Pure Tone Average (PTA)? Definition: The pure tone average (PTA) is a measure of hearing loss that is calculated by averaging the air conduction thresholds of the three middle frequencies, usually 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, and 2000 Hz. For flat or gently-sloping shaped
What is the study of physics? Physics is the study of the physical properties of matter and energy. It is a broad field that encompasses the study of topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. How is physics related to hearing? Physics is
What is the Pinna? The pinna is a part of the ear made up of cartilage. It is also referred to as the auricle. The pinna is an important part of the auditory system. It helps to collect sound waves and direct them into the
What is a Potentiometer? A potentiometer is a type of variable resistor. It is used to control the amount of current that flows through a circuit. Potentiometers are often used in audiology to adjust the amplification of hearing aids. Potentiometers in audiology Potentiometers are used
What is a Power Hearing Aid? A power hearing aid is a type of hearing aid that is designed specifically for individuals with severe to profound hearing losses. Power hearing aids provide more amplification than other types of hearing aids, which allows them to help
What is Prelingual Hearing Loss? Hearing loss that occurs prior to a child developing speech and language skills. What causes prelingual hearing loss? Prelingual hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including: Genetic conditions Congenital infections, such as rubella, cytomegalovirus, or herpes
Definition: In hearing terms, QoL refers to the increased ability to enjoy and pursue daily activities when a hearing loss is addressed with amplification. What is the Quality of Life with hearing loss? The quality of life with hearing loss can vary from person
What is Rarefaction? Rarefaction is the portion of a sound wave where the air molecules are most spread apart and have the lowest pressure. This is the opposite of compression, which is the portion of a sound wave where the air molecules are closest together
What is Resonance? Resonance can occur in any object or medium that can vibrate. Resonance can be used to amplify sound waves. It can also be used to filter out unwanted sound waves. What is Resonance Sound? Resonance sound is the phenomenon of sound waves
What does Retrocochlear mean in medical terms? Retrocochlear means “behind the cochlea.” In audiology, retrocochlear refers to hearing loss that is caused by damage to the auditory nerve, the brainstem, or the brain. What is the meaning of Retrocochlear pathology? Retrocochlear pathology is a term
Reverberation can be a desirable or undesirable effect in sound. In music, reverberation can be used to create a sense of space or atmosphere. However, in speech, reverberation can make it difficult to understand what is being said. What is Reverberation? Reverberation is the persistence
What is Reverse-Slope Audiogram? A reverse-slope audiogram is a type of audiogram that shows a hearing loss that is more pronounced at low frequencies than at high frequencies. This type of hearing loss is also known as low-frequency hearing loss or sloping hearing loss. What
What is the Round Window in Your Ear? The round window is a membrane-covered opening in the cochlea of the inner ear. It is located below the oval window, which is another opening in the cochlea. The round window allows fluid to move in and
What is Real Ear Testing? Real ear testing (REM) is a type of hearing test that measures the performance of hearing aids in the ear canal. It is a more accurate way to measure hearing aid performance than traditional methods, such as audiometric testing. What
What is a real-ear aided response? Real ear aided response (REAR) is a measure of the sound pressure level (SPL) of a sound in the ear canal with a hearing aid turned on. It is calculated by subtracting the SPL of a sound in the
What is Real Ear Unaided Response (REUR)? Real ear unaided response (REUR) is a valuable tool for audiologists and hearing aid users. It can help to identify problems with hearing aid fitting and to ensure that hearing aids are providing the best possible hearing benefit.
What is Real Ear Occluded Response (REOR)? Real ear occluded response (REOR) is a measure of the sound pressure level (SPL) of a sound in the ear canal with a hearing aid inserted in the ear but turned off. It is calculated by subtracting the
What is a Receiver (Hearing Aid)? A receiver is the speaker inside of a hearing aid that converts the amplified electrical energy to sound waves. It is the final component in the hearing aid that delivers the amplified sound to the ear. What is the
What is Recruitment in Audiology? Recruitment is a condition that occurs in sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), a type of hearing loss that affects the inner ear. In people with recruitment, a specific increase in intensity is perceived as a significantly larger increase in loudness than
What are Swimplugs? Swimplugs are earplugs that are specifically designed to keep water out of the ear canal. They are often used by swimmers, surfers, and other people who participate in water sports. Swimplugs can be made of a variety of materials, including silicone, rubber,
What is the Superior Olivary Complex (SOC)? The superior olivary complex (SOC) is a group of nuclei located in the brainstem that are involved in hearing. It is the first auditory relay station after the cochlear nucleus, and it plays a role in sound localization,
Simple harmonic motion is a periodic motion, which means that it repeats itself after a regular interval of time. What is simple harmonic motion in simple terms? Simple harmonic motion (SHM) is a type of motion in which the object or air molecules vibrate back
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a type of hearing loss that occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. The inner ear is responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals that are sent to the brain. The auditory nerve
What is the soma in the body? In audiology, soma refers to the cell body of a nerve cell. It is the largest part of the neuron and contains the nucleus and other organelles. Why is it called soma? The word soma comes from the
What is a Sound Booth? Sound booths are typically made of sound-absorbing materials, such as acoustic foam or fiberglass. The walls, ceiling, and floor of the booth are typically lined with sound-absorbing materials. What is a sound booth used for in audiology? An audiology sound
Sound field hearing aid testing is a type of hearing test that is used to assess the performance of hearing aids. The test is conducted in a sound booth, with the stimuli presented through a speaker system. The patient wears their hearing aids during the
What is Speech Audiometry? Speech audiometry is a valuable tool for assessing a person’s ability to understand speech. However, it is important to remember that speech audiometry is just one part of a comprehensive hearing evaluation. What is Speech Audiometry? Speech audiometry is a type
What Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Do? A speech-language pathologist (SLP) is a healthcare professional who assesses speech and language development and treats language and speech disorders. SLPs work with people of all ages, from infants to adults, who have a variety of communication disorders. Some
What is Speech Mapping? Speech mapping is a type of real-ear measurement (REM) that uses speech as the input signal. This allows audiologists to see how hearing aids perform in real-world listening situations. Speech mapping is often used to fine-tune the settings of hearing aids,
What is Speech Reading? Speech reading is the technique of using lip reading and other visual cues produced by a speaker to help with the understanding of spoken words. It is a valuable skill for people with hearing loss, as it can help them to
What is the Speech Reception Threshold (SRT)? Speech reception threshold (SRT) is a measure of hearing ability that is used to assess the lowest intensity level at which an individual can repeat familiar two-syllable words, known as spondee words, more than half of the time.
What is the Tunnel of Corti? The tunnel of Corti is a narrow space beneath the arch of Corti in the cochlea. It is filled with endolymph, a fluid that is similar to the fluid in the inner ear. Where is the tunnel of Corti?
What is a tuning fork? A tuning fork is a handheld device that produces tones that are essentially pure tones. Tuning forks of different sizes produce different frequency tones. The frequency of a tuning fork is determined by the length of the fork and the
What is TTS (Temporary Threshold Shift)? TTS, or temporary threshold shift, is a temporary hearing loss that occurs after exposure to loud noise. It is caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. The hair cells are responsible for converting sound waves
What is the Tympanic Membrane? The tympanic membrane, also known as the eardrum, is a thin, semi-circular membrane that separates the ear canal from the middle ear cavity. It is a critical component of the hearing system, as it vibrates when hit with sound waves,
What is a Tympanogram? A tympanogram is a graph that shows the mobility of the tympanic membrane, or eardrum. It is a test that is used to assess the function of the middle ear. What does a tympanogram tell you? A tympanogram can tell you
What is Tympanometry? Tympanometry is a test that measures the mobility of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and the middle ear cavity. It is a painless and non-invasive test that is performed by an audiologist. What does a tympanometry test for? Tympanometry can be used to
What is a Transmitter? A transmitter is a device that sends a signal from one place to another. In audiology, a transmitter is used in a contralateral routing of signal (CROS) system to send sound from the deaf ear to the hearing ear. What is
What is the trapezoid body? The trapezoid body is a nerve fiber pathway in the lower brainstem that decussates from one hemisphere to the other. The trapezoid body contains a nucleus, called the nucleus of the trapezoid body. How is the trapezoid body formed? The
What is a Traveling waves? A traveling wave is a wave that moves through a medium, transporting energy from one point to another. In the context of audiology, a traveling wave is a wave of displacement that travels along the basilar membrane in the cochlea
What is a Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD)? A Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD) is a device that allows people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate over the phone. TDDs use a typewriter-like keyboard to type messages, which are then
The tectorial membrane is a gelatinous structure that is located above the hair cells in the cochlea. It is attached to the osseous spiral lamina, which is a bony shelf that runs along the edge of the cochlea. The tectorial membrane is thought to play
What are the temporomandibular joint and its structures? The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull (temporal bone). It is located in front of each ear, and it allows the jaw to move up and down,
What is Uncomfortable Loudness Level (UCL)? Uncomfortable Loudness Level (UCL) is a measurement that is often made prior to the ordering of or programming of a hearing aid that determines, for speech or tones, the intensity level that a patient considers to be the most
What is an umbo? An umbo is the centermost point of the tympanic membrane, or eardrum. It is the point at which the tympanic membrane is most medially displaced. The manubrium of the malleus, the outermost bone of the middle ear, is attached to the
What is Unilateral in Audiology? Pertaining only to one ear or one side of the head (i.e., The person with hearing loss on the right but not the left has unilateral hearing loss). What is unilateral hearing loss? Unilateral hearing loss is hearing loss that
What is the Utricle? The utricle is a small, sac-like structure located in the vestibule of the inner ear. It is part of the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. The utricle contains hair cells that are sensitive to movement. When the head moves,
What is Volume Control? Volume control is a wheel or button on the faceplate of a hearing aid or on a remote control that is used by a hearing aid wearer to increase or decrease the instrument’s gain. The volume control allows the wearer to
What is the Vestibular System? The vestibular system is a part of the inner ear that is responsible for balance. It is made up of three main parts: the semicircular canals, the utricle, and the saccule. These structures contain hair cells that are sensitive to
What is the vestibule in the human body? The vestibule is a part of the inner ear that is located between the cochlea and the semicircular canals. It is a small, fluid-filled space that contains three otolith organs: the utricle, the saccule, and the macula.
What is the Vestibulocochlear Nerve? The vestibulocochlear nerve, also known as the auditory nerve or the eighth cranial nerve, is a sensory nerve that connects the inner ear to the brainstem. It is responsible for both hearing and balance. The vestibulocochlear nerve is made up
What is the VIII Nerve? The VIII nerve, also known as the vestibulocochlear nerve or the acoustic nerve, is the eighth of twelve cranial nerves. It is a sensory nerve that carries information from the inner ear to the brainstem. The VIII nerve is responsible
What is Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA)? Visual reinforcement audiometry (VRA) is a behavioral test used to assess the hearing of infants and toddlers who are too young to participate in traditional hearing tests. In VRA, the child is conditioned to associate a sound with a
What is Vertigo? Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or feeling like the world is spinning around you. It is a symptom of a problem with the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. Vertigo can be very unpleasant and can make it difficult to
What is a Vent? Some hearing aids come with vents already built in, while others require the addition of a vent. Vents can also affect the frequency response of the hearing aid. What do vents do on a hearing aid? Vents are holes that are
What is a Wavelength? Wavelength is the distance between two points on a wave that is in the same phase of vibration. In audiology, the wavelength is typically measured in feet. The wavelength of a sound wave is related to its frequency, which is the
What is a wax loop? A wax loop is a small tool used by professionals and hearing aid users to clean ear wax out of the tubing of a hearing aid. It is a small, thin wire with a loop at one end. The loop
What is the WNL? WNL stands for “within normal limits.” In audiology, this term is used to describe hearing that is within the normal range. A normal audiology report will show that all of the hearing test results are WNL. What is a normal audiology
What is the Word Recognition Score (WRS)? A word recognition score (WRS) is a measure of how well a person can understand speech. It is calculated by dividing the number of words that a person correctly repeats by the total number of words in a