While hearing loss typically affects older adults, another at-risk group is children. Younger people can experience congenital, non-age-related issues with their ears, causing them to have difficult hearing. Earwax and fluid can also prevent their ears from picking up sounds. In many cases, younger children cannot communicate their hearing loss or do not realize it is occurring. Fortunately, hearing specialists can help. These professionals offer the support, guidance and solutions for children with mild-to-profound hearing issues.
What are the Impacts of Untreated Hearing Loss in Children?
Untreated hearing loss in children can have far-reaching consequences, affecting various aspects of their development. One of the primary concerns is the potential impact on speech and language development. Hearing is integral to language acquisition, and untreated hearing loss may lead to delays in speech production and language comprehension. This, in turn, can affect academic performance, social interactions, and overall communication skills. Additionally, untreated hearing loss may contribute to feelings of frustration, isolation, and difficulty in socializing with peers. Educational and behavioral challenges can arise, potentially hindering a child’s overall well-being. Early intervention and appropriate management of hearing loss in children are crucial to mitigate these potential impacts and provide them with the necessary support for optimal development.
Administer Assessments
When it comes to testing a child for hearing loss, there are a number of different methods that can be used depending on age and maturity. Some tests that could be administered include:
- Tympanometry: A test used to detect fluid and wax buildup and the presence of eardrum perforation.
- Otoacoustic emission screening: A test that checks the inner ear’s response to sound. It determines the hard-of-hearing status of newborns.
- Bone conduction evaluation: A test that involves placing a headband on the head and stimulating the inner ear directly, revealing whether hearing issues arise from poor bone conduction or other sources.
- Auditory brainstem response (ABR) test: This test evaluates the electrical activity in the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound. It is frequently used for infants and young children who may not be able to respond to sounds during a behavioral hearing test.
- Visual reinforcement audiometry (VRA): This behavioral hearing test is designed for infants and young children who are old enough to respond to visual reinforcement. A sound is played, and when the child turns their head toward the source of the sound, they are rewarded with a visual stimulus.
- Conditioned play audiometry (CPA): This test is suitable for toddlers and young children. It turns the hearing test into a game, where the child is trained to respond to sounds by performing a specific action, like placing a block in a bucket.
Once the results of your hearing test are in, your professional will talk to you about the results and what they recommend treatment wise. Hearing aids are the most common solution and come in a variety of different styles and colors.
Selecting and Fitting Hearing Aids
If your hearing specialist believes your child has hearing loss, the next step will be to walk through the list of device styles. Behind-the-ear hearing aids are the most common option for children, as they are durable, easy to handle and can grow with them as they mature! Once you have settled on the best device for your child, you’ll need to have the hearing aids programmed to their specific hearing needs.
During the hearing aid fitting, your hearing instrument specialist (HIS) will educate you on all the ins and outs of the devices. This means how to properly insert and remove the hearing aids, as well as work the features and change the batteries. Lastly, you will learn how care for and maintain the devices, include daily routine tips and when to see a HIS for professional help.
Follow-Up and Monitoring
Hearing care professionals may recommend follow-up appointments to ensure pediatric patients receive the proper treatment. In some cases, follow-ups involve device adjustments. Your HIS may change settings based on feedback from patients or their families. With a few adjustments, the hearing aids should help the child adapt and communicate more easily.
Find Professional Help Today
If you want to learn more about hearing loss, the evaluation process and treatment options, the first step is to make an appointment with a professional The team at Better Hearing of Madison County is well-versed in finding the right solution for individual needs. Call (315) 693-3637 to talk to one of our team members about your options.
