What is Audiology?

Audiology is the study of hearing and hearing disorders. It is a profession that is concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and management of hearing loss and balance disorders. Access Hearing Centre has clinicians which are fully trained and qualified to meet the stringent guidelines and requirements set forth by the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC.

Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the outer or middle ear, such as a blockage or damage to the eardrum or bones of the middle ear. This type of hearing loss can sometimes be treated with medication, surgery, or other interventions.

Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. This type of hearing loss is often permanent and may require the use of hearing aids or other assistive devices to improve hearing.

Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.



In addition to diagnosing and treating hearing loss, we also play a crucial role in the management of hearing aid options.

Loss of Balance?

When there is a problem with the inner ear, it can affect both hearing and balance. Balance disorders can cause dizziness, vertigo, and difficulty walking or standing, and can be caused by a variety of factors including inner ear disorders, medications, and neurological conditions. We do not perform balance testing here but can absolutely assist with finding who you may need to see through our community partnerships.

Why Should You Speak With Us Today?

Access Hearing Centre does not require any Doctor referrals for an adult to be seen as they can just call the clinic and speak with one of our wonderful staff members. If you would like you can the time to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have about your hearing, as early detection and treatment of hearing loss have numerous advantages. Chances are your doctor will advise you to get a hearing test.

Hearing loss makes it difficult to understand speech and follow conversations, particularly in noisy or crowded settings. Your ability to communicate wherever you are is negatively impacted by this. It might make it harder to participate in things like company meetings, phone conversations with customers, or even catching up with co-workers. This can make you feel more stressed and even hurt your performance at work.

Home communication issues may be even more common. Misunderstandings with loved ones and spouses can be more prevalent for many people with hearing loss. This can strain relationships causing hurt feelings and frustration on both sides.

Communication is made simpler and relationships with loved ones are strengthened when hearing aids or other assistive listening devices are used to treat your hearing loss.

Avoid Missing the sounds you love.

Hearing loss can make it hard to enjoy the sounds you love. It might be harder for you to enjoy listening to your favourite songs or hear the birds chirping outside your window. It might be more difficult to talk to your grandchildren about school or their most recent soccer game.

You will be more likely to try new things if you are confident in your ability to navigate the world and process the sounds that surround you. Hearing aids can help you be more open to trying new things, whether you join a book club or go sign up for that college course you’ve been meaning to take! 

Protect Your Health: 

Untreated hearing loss may make you more likely to get certain diseases. These include an increased chance of:

Depression,

Anxiety,

Problems with balance,

Injuries from falls,

Cognitive decline,

and dementia.



Using hearing aids can help lower your risk of developing these conditions, making you happier and improving your overall quality of life.

For more information or to set up an appointment, call Access Hearing Centre.

Fort St. John

(250) 787-7758 

Or 

Dawson Creek 

(250) 782-7340