It is estimated that sixty percent of all individuals over 65 years of age have a hearing impairment of some degree. It is also believed that due to exposure to noise in the environment today, audible loss associated with aging is being accelerated. Hearing loss is usually a gradual occurrence causing many people to not even realize they have a problem until it has progressed enough to where they need treatment. If this problem arises, the best type of physician to treat it is an otolaryngologist in Kentucky.

Otolaryngologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and managing diseases and disorders of the ears, nose, mouth and throat. Unlike many other doctors, otolaryngologists are not only trained in medicine, but also in performing surgical procedures, which can eliminate the need for a referral, if surgery is needed. These physicians must complete up to 15 years of education and then pass an examination given by the American Board of Otolaryngology. With their advanced education and training, otolaryngologists can provide the best treatments available for hearing loss.

By physical examination and performing specific tests, the otolaryngologist can determine the exact cause of the problem. If the specialist believes that a hearing aid will relieve the problem, he will usually send the patient to an audiologist who will provide the device. For patients who have conductive audible loss and require some amplification, but also have chronic ear infections, the otolaryngologist may recommend the use of a bone-anchored hearing aid. These devices are a combination of a tiny titanium implant that has a sound processor attached to it. The device is implanted in the bone located behind the ear using a routine surgical procedure. This allows the bone to act as a conductor for sounds to go into the inner ear, without disturbing the ear canal. This reduces the risks of aggravating ear infections.

Cochlear implants are often used in treating children and adults who suffer from moderate to severe hearing loss that affects both ears. These devices can enable the individual to receive sounds and process speech, which can be life changing for many people. Cochlear implants are implanted surgically to bypass the inner ear damaged part. Although these implant devices will not restore hearing to normal capacity, it can help individuals learn to communicate better by understanding speech easier. Otolaryngologists in Kentucky also treat ear disorders such as infections, tinnitus, balance disorders, facial and cranial nerve disorders and nerve pain as well as birth disorders of both the inner and outer ear.