Audiology

Hearing loss is a natural part of the aging process. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one-third of Americans over the age of 60 and nearly 50 percent of Americans over the age of 75 experience hearing loss. But circumstances can arise earlier in life that can lead to hearing difficulties. For women, this may occur with certain chronic inflammatory or degenerative diseases, or injury due to loud noises. Certain types of breast cancer treatment can also produce hearing loss.

At Lake Forest Hospital’s Audiology Department, we customize evaluations, treatments and services to match specific needs and unique situations. In addition to hearing loss, the Audiology Department also evaluates and treats patients suffering from dizziness and balance disorders as well as tinnitus (hearing noises when no external sound is present). Approximately half the people affected by tinnitus also suffer from hearing loss and/or hyperacusis (oversensitivity to noise).

Hearing aids—For many cases in which hearing loss cannot be corrected medically or surgically, the proper hearing aid can help re-establish and improve verbal and auditory communication. We offer complete hearing aid services designed to meet your needs, whether you need to amplify sound or limit volume. Our experienced audiology professionals will help you select the style that fits your condition and lifestyle. After a professional fitting and thorough instructions for use, you will have 30 days to try out the style you selected to make sure it was the right choice. Accessories such as batteries, swim molds and telephone/television amplifiers are also available.