Hearing Loss In Children

It is estimated that about 2-3 of every 1,000 children in the United States are born with hearing loss in one or both ears. When a child loses his/her sense of hearing at a very young age, it can affect his/her ability to develop language, communicate, and socialize with others. In the past, hearing loss in children usually goes unnoticed until they reach the age of 2 when he or she doesn’t talk yet. Now research is showing that treating the hearing loss before a child reaches 6 months of age results in a more favorable outcome. This results in newborn hearing screening, which becomes universal in hospitals in the United States. What is hearing loss? A hearing loss occurs when a part of parts of the ear is/are not working in the usual way. Some of the most common signs of hearing loss in children include:

Not saying a single word by age 1
Does not turn to the source of noise after 6 months old
Does not get startled at loud noises
May turn when he/she sees you but does not do it when you call out his/her name
Does not follow directions
May turn up the volume of the TV too high

Common Causes of Hearing Loss in Children Hearing loss in children can be a result of a congenital or acquired condition. Some of the congenital causes of hearing loss include autosomal recessive hearing loss, autosomal dominant hearing loss, a nervous system or brain disorder, and genetic syndromes such as Treacher Collins and Alport syndromes. When a child suffers from hearing loss later in life, it can be a result of a perforated eardrum, infections like Meningitis and measles, a serious head injury, or untreated or frequent otitis media. If you suspect that your child suffers from hearing loss, it’s important to see a specialist immediately. Early intervention can result in a more favorable outcome. Greater Knoxville ENT has specialists who can help. We have years of experience in diagnosing and treating ear conditions, including those that may lead to hearing loss. To schedule an appointment, you may call us at (865) 244-4396. References: https://www.webmd.com/parenting/help-for-parents-hearing-impaired-children https://www.healthyhearing.com/help/hearing-loss/children

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