Audiology serves as the clinical triage hub for hearing and balance complaints. Comprehensive audiologic testing clarifies diagnosis, identifies urgency, and helps determine when ENT referral or imaging is truly indicated.
The majority of hearing-related concerns can be safely and efficiently evaluated by Audiology before ENT referral or imaging.
Refer to Audiology
Gradual bilateral hearing loss
Tinnitus (any duration)
Failed hearing screening
Balance concerns without neurologic red flags
Sudden hearing loss if ENT is unavailable within 24 hours
Refer to ENT (Urgent)
Sudden hearing loss
Unilateral hearing loss with tinnitus
Pulsatile tinnitus
Facial weakness
Vertigo with neurologic symptoms
Refer to Audiology (Non-Urgent)
Non-pulsatile tinnitus
No ear pain, drainage, or malodor
No vestibular symptoms (e.g., dizziness or vertigo)
Refer to Audiology (Variable Urgency)
Pulsatile tinnitus
Ear pain, drainage, or malodor
Vestibular symptoms
Refer to Audiology / ENT (Urgent)
Physical trauma
Facial palsy
Sudden unexplained hearing loss
Suicidal ideation or significant mental health concerns
Misconceptions about hearing loss can delay diagnosis, referral, and treatment. Addressing these myths early improves patient outcomes and supports evidence-based care.
Hearing loss is treatable
Normal otoscopy does not rule out hearing loss
Speech understanding matters more than volume
Hearing aids are effective when appropriately fitted
Tinnitus can be evaluated and managed
Imaging is not the first step for most hearing complaints
Over-the-counter devices are not appropriate for all patients
Hearing health is brain health
