Hearing loss in children

Hearing loss, otherwise known as deafness, is a common condition that causes a lack of ability to hear sound by damaging the ear's sensory cells. It can be present from birth or acquired later in life.

Hearing loss is a common childhood ailment that can have devastating effects on the child's life. The deafness often stems from ear infections, chronic middle-ear problems, or fluid in the ears. With early diagnosis and treatment, children with hearing loss can develop speech skills that are indistinguishable from those of other children their age. 

Symptoms of Hearing loss in Children

-Trouble hearing sounds in some situations, especially when there is lots of background noise.

-Not responding to noises or reacting to loud noises while others can hear them.

-Repeating words or phrases said by another person, but not speaking very much on his/her own.

-Not turning his/her head to loud noises.

-Losing the ability to hear high tones over time.

Causesof hearing loss

There are a lot of causes for childhood hearing loss such as toxins, genetics, lack of oxygen or trauma to the head. Hearing loss can also be due to untreated ear infections when they are younger and it can lead to permanent damage from prolonged exposure when treated too late.

Treatments

-Hearing aids are the most common treatment for people with severe or permanent hearing loss. They come in a variety of styles and sizes, and require regular maintenance.

-Cochlear implants offer another option for people with profound hearing loss. A tiny electronic device, it bypasses the damaged portion of the inner ear and stimulates directly the auditory nerve. 

Children can be born or develop hearing loss that affects their language development, speech and auditory skills. The first step for parents to take is to contact a doctor/Audiologist who will give them more information on how they can help their child overcome his/her problem. There are plenty of treatments that can give hope to children with hearing loss.