Audiology and Balance

Audiology is the specialty that performs the diagnosis, evaluation and follow-up of diseases related to the hearing and balance system. In our department, many problems affecting the quality of life such as hearing loss, tinnitus (tinnitus), dizziness (vertigo) and balance disorders are evaluated with advanced technology devices and scientific methods.

In what cases should I apply?

It is recommended that you contact the Department of Audiology if you experience one or more of the following complaints:

• Hearing loss or difficulty understanding speech
• Feeling of ringing or buzzing in the ear
• Dizziness (vertigo) and imbalance
• Feeling of fullness in the ear
• Frequent recurring balance problems

Services Offered

Comprehensive assessment and diagnostic services are offered to our patients in our department:

• Hearing tests (audiometry)
• Tympanometry and reflex tests
• Tinnitus (tinnitus) assessment and management
• Balance tests (Videonistagmography - VNG)

Balance (Vestibular System) Assessment

The balance system works in harmony between the inner ear, eyes and brain. Problems that can occur in this system can lead to dizziness, imbalance, and the risk of falling. With detailed balance tests performed in our department, the source of the problem is determined and a tailor-made treatment plan is created.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis in hearing and balance problems directly affects treatment success. Early recognition of hearing loss, especially in childhood, is of great importance in terms of language and speech development. In adults, on the other hand, early intervention helps maintain social life and daily activities.

Patient Oriented Approach

In our Audiology Department, each patient's needs are assessed individually and tailored solutions are offered. Our goal is to improve the quality of life of our patients and support them to lead a balanced life with healthy hearing.

What are the Diagnostic Methods Applied in the Audiology Department?

The audiology department implements a variety of tests and evaluations to diagnose hearing and balance problems. These tests are determined based on the patient's complaints and clinical manifestations. Audiological evaluationis used to determine the degree, type and cause of hearing loss. For patients with balance problems, comprehensive vestibular tests are performed to investigate the source of the problem.

The main diagnostic methods used in audiology are:

• Hearing Tests: It is applied to determine the level of perception of the patient's sounds.
• Audiometric Tests: They are detailed assessments to understand the degree and type of hearing loss.
• Balance Tests: It is applied to assess complaints of dizziness and imbalance by examining the balance system in the inner ear.

Hearing Tests and Audiometric Assessment

Different techniques are used together to assess hearing health. Hearing testwhile measuring an individual's ability to hear sounds of different frequencies, audiometric tests offer a more comprehensive analysis.

Basic Tests Applied

• Pure Audio Audiometry: Determines the minimum volume that the person can hear.
• Speech Audiometry: It measures how clearly the sounds heard are understood.
• Tympanometry: Evaluates middle ear pressure and mobility of the eardrum.

As a result of these tests, the patient hearing thresholds by determining, it is clarified at what level (mild, moderate, advanced) this is, if there is a loss, and from which part of the ear structure it is caused.

Balance Tests and Vestibular Assessment

In patients who experience complaints of dizziness, vertigo and imbalance, advanced technological methods are used to understand the source of balance disorders. Vestibular evaluation The following methods are used within the scope of:

• Videonistagmography (VNG): It studies the center of balance in the inner ear by following eye movements.
• Caloric Tests: Measures the response of the balance system by supplying air or water to the ear canal.
• Posturography: It tests the patient's ability to maintain balance in different ground and visual conditions.

Problems with the balance system located in the inner ear are determined thanks to these tests and a personalized rehabilitation or treatment process is initiated.