Dictionary

audiology The study of hearing.

audiometry The measurement of hearing.

auditory acuity The clarity or clearness of hearing, a measure of how well a person hears. Auditory acuity is measured in order to determine a person’s need for a hearing aid.

auditory tube See Eustachian tube.

augmentative communication device A physical, mechanical, or electronic device that helps a person with a speech impairment to communicate. Augmentative communication devices range from books of pictures or words that the patient can show to express thoughts, to computers that are capable of synthesizing complex speech.

aura A sensation perceived by a patient that precedes a condition affecting the brain. An aura often occurs before a migraine or seizure. It may consist of flashing lights, a gleam of light, blurred vision, an odor, the feeling of a breeze, numbness, weakness, or difficulty in speaking.

aural vertigo, recurrent See Ménière’s disease.

auricle 1 The principal projecting part of the ear, also known as pinna. 2 A structure that is earshaped, like the atrium of the heart, which is also referred to as the auricle of the heart.

auricular Of or pertaining to the outer ear, or to something else that is ear-shaped, such as the atrium of the heart.

auricular fibrillation See fibrillation, atrial.

atherosclerotic Pertaining to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerotic heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. See atherosclerosis.

athetosis Involuntary writhing movements, particularly of the arms and hands. Athetosis is associated with several neurological disorders, such as cerebral palsy and Rett syndrome.