Meet Our Audiologist
, AuD., CCC
Dr. Ashley Mejia
Dr. Ashley Mejia earned her bachelor's degree in communication disorders from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and a Doctorate of Audiology at Louisiana Tech University in May 2021. During her time at Louisiana Tech, Dr. Mejia distinguished herself by winning the Sharon Anderson Sander’s Memorial Scholarship, the Graduate Academician Award, and the Outstanding Achievement in the Doctor of Audiology Program Award.
Dr. Mejia provides a wide range of audiological services, including hearing tests and exams for patients of all ages. She is particularly committed to offering hearing aids that cater to the unique needs of each individual, ensuring improved hearing and quality of life. Additionally, Dr. Mejia is dedicated to serving veterans, recognizing the importance of specialized care for those who have served our country.
Beyond her professional commitments, Dr. Mejia enjoys spending quality time with her family. She and her husband, Alex, are delighted with the newest addition to their family, Athena Josie. They also love playing with their dog, Alluka, and their cat, Killua. Dr. Mejia’s dedication to her patients, combined with her warm family life, underscores her compassionate and holistic approach to audiology.
Services
Diagnostic Hearing Services
1. Pure Tone Audiometry
This test determines the hearing abilities of patients in respect to different frequencies or pitches of sounds. The softest audible sounds are plotted on an audiogram, or graph representing hearing sensitivity. This information helps quantify hearing loss and is one determining factor in hearing device candidacy.
2. Speech Audiometry
This consists of two subtests. First, the patient repeats a list of two-syllable words at decreasing loudness levels to assess the reliability of pure tone audiometry. The second test, Word Recognition (WR), involves repeating one-syllable words at a comfortable listening level to evaluate speech understanding in an ideal environment. WR testing also helps determine hearing device candidacy and predict success with amplification.
3. Tympanometry
Provides helpful information about the status of the outer and middle ear system including ear canal volume, ear canal pressure, and the ability of the ear drum to move back and forth.
4. Acoustic Reflex Testing (ARTs)
Objectively measures the contraction of the middle ear muscles, known as the ossicles, in response to loud sounds.
5. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing
This objective test assesses the integrity of the outer hair cells located within the cochlea, the organ of hearing. OAEs are useful when testing infants and young children who are unable to participate in traditional pure tone audiometry. People with normal hearing usually have OAEs so it can be a useful tool in the diagnostic process.
6. Baseline Hearing Test
A baseline hearing test will include all of the services listed above. The results will be used to make future comparisons about change of hearing abilities over time. A baseline hearing test is recommended to all adults prior to noticing a problem with hearing. After a baseline is complete, the audiologist will make recommendations for further care, which may include annual hearing re-evaluations, hearing aids, or a referral to a medical doctor.
Hearing Aids
Hearing Aid Consultation
Not sure if a hearing aid is right for you? Let us test your hearing and see if you are a candidate. Based on your lifestyle and hearing loss, hearing aids will be recommended. Demo a pair of hearing aids to find out first-hand what the aids feel like and sound like. If you decide to proceed with the selected devices, a hearing aid fitting is scheduled at the patient’s convenience.
Hearing Aid Fitting
The next step is the actual hearing aid fitting. Hearing aids are digitally programmed using the results gathered from the diagnostic hearing test. Real Ear measurements are taken to determine the actual sound delivered at the level of the ear drum from the hearing aid by inserting a thin microphone in the ear canal. After you approve the sound quality and comfort of the aids, information is provided so you can care for the aids independently. Battery changing is practiced and cleaning protocols are discussed.
Hearing Aid Check and Adjustments
We recommend a Hearing Aid Check every 3-4 months in order to insure the aid is working appropriately and also for a thorough cleaning. These checks are at no cost to the patient for the life of the hearing aid. A repeat hearing test will be administered at least once a year to check for change in hearing sensitivity. If a change is documented, the hearing aids are adjusted to compensate for the loss.
Final Step
At the conclusion of the session, you are taught how to insert and remove the aids and also how to manipulate any controls on the aids. After all questions are answered, we will schedule a follow-up for one to two weeks.
Custom Ear Plugs
Swimmer's Ear Plugs
When it comes to swimming, many people focus on having fun and staying active in the water. However, it’s equally important to prioritize the safety and protection of your ears. Swimming without proper ear protection can expose your ears to risks and complications.
That’s why investing in the proper ear protection, such as custom earplugs, is crucial. By safeguarding your ears, you can prevent conditions like swimmer’s ear, outer ear infections, and hearing loss, allowing you to enjoy your water activities worry-free. Remember, protecting your ears while swimming is not just a matter of comfort but also an essential aspect of maintaining your long-term ear health.
Custom Ear Plugs for Different Needs
Whether you’re a motorcycle rider exposed to continuous sound such as wind, a shooter or hunter exposed to impact sounds, or a swimmer looking to keep water out of your ears, there’s a custom ear plug for you.
Custom earplugs come in different designs to cater to a variety of needs.