By Mary Ormson
This article is a part of the November/December 2021, Volume 33, Number 6, Audiology Today issue.
Clinical data has shown a correlation between viral infection and tinnitus/hearing loss. Based on this data amid the current global COVID-19 pandemic, patients presenting with complaints of tinnitus and hearing loss could be on the rise.
When a patient has been exposed to a virus and is presenting with symptoms of a hearing problem, it’s important to identify and quantify their subjective symptoms as soon as possible. A tool like Madsen® Astera2 Clinical Audiometer makes it easy to perform a thorough assessment.
How does a tinnitus evaluation benefit both the patient and clinician?
An evaluation gives the clinician an objective picture of the symptoms rather than relying on the patient’s subjective description.
The evaluation may lessen patient anxiety with reassurance that the disrupting sounds they hear are real and measurable.
A treatment plan can be determined to help the patient better manage their symptoms.
While the long-term effect of the COVID-19 virus on the auditory system is still unknown, you can offer support to your patients with early tinnitus treatment options.
