When dealing with any ear related issues, , many often wonder what doctor they need to see as there seems to be more than one. To see. working with ears are otolaryngologists/ENTs (Ear, Nose, and Throat doctors) and Audiologists. While both types of providers work with ears, the difference is important to understand as both may play a role in your care.
ENTs (ear, nose, and throat doctors) are medical doctors—either MDs or DOs—who specialize in conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat. They first earn a bachelor’s degree, usually in a science-related field, then complete medical school to earn their MD or DO. After that, they undergo several years of specialized training through a residency, and sometimes additional fellowship training. ENTs diagnose and treat medical conditions of the ear, nose, and throat using approaches such as medications, procedures, and surgery
Audiologists also earn a bachelor’s degree, but instead of going to medical school, they complete a clinical doctorate in audiology (AuD). This advanced degree focuses specifically on diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders for people of all ages. Audiologists are specially trained to evaluate hearing and to fit, program, and manage hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other listening devices.
Think of it like this – When you need glasses or contacts to treat a non-medical vision problem, you’ll typically see an optometrist who will diagnose your type of vision loss and prescribe glasses/contacts for you to wear so that you can see. But, if you have a problem that requires medication or surgery, chances are, you’ll need to see the ophthalmologist to get that. The fields of audiology and otolaryngology are much the same.
Alexandra Jackson, Au. D.
