Hearing loss in children

Hearing loss or temporary impairment in children is more common than most people think. But why does this happen? what causes hearing loss, and how can you spot it in your child? In this post, we’ll discuss hearing loss in children, including signs and symptoms to look out for as well as some available treatments.

How common is hearing loss in children?

According to the government statistics, there are around 50,000 children in the UK with hearing loss in one or both ears which means approximately 1 to 2 in every 1000 babies are born with hearing impairment.

Temporary hearing loss

​Temporary hearing loss means the child only experiences reduced hearing for a limited time, typically triggered by issues like earwax, infections, and fluid buildup. Unlike permanent hearing loss, temporary hearing loss can usually be treated and completely reversed with medical treatment.
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Regular check-ups and swift actions to reverse temporary hearing loss are essential in preventing long-term effects on a child's social and language development.

Signs your child has hearing loss

Now that you know why early intervention is so vital, perhaps it’s worth outlining what signs you can look out for in your child. Here are some common symptoms:

Infants (0-12 months old)
You may see a lack of response in your child to loud sounds. For example, they may not be frightened by loud noises or turn their heads in the direction of where a sound came from.

Toddlers (1-4 years old)
Toddlers may struggle with delayed speech development if they are experiencing hearing loss. They may not respond to their name or follow simple commands.

School-aged children (5+ years old)
You might spot your child frequently asking for repetition, speaking loudly or unclearly, and turning up the volume on their electronic devices. Also, note if they are facing difficulties learning in school.
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Parents or guardians should seek help from an audiologist if they notice the symptoms listed above, here at K & M Hearing Solutions we are happy to help, we are qualified and insured to treat children over the age of 5 years old. Contact us

What causes hearing impairment at an early age?

The truth is that there is no one set cause of hearing impairment at an early age. Various factors can trigger it, such as:

Genetics
In many cases, hearing loss can be inherited by relatives. For example, genetic syndromes like Usher syndrome can include hearing impairment as one of the symptoms.
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Environment
Another way a child may suffer from hearing loss is through environmental factors. For example, exposure to loud noises or head injuries can result in hearing impairment.
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Infections
Some infections like measles, mumps, and rubella can contribute to hearing loss. Chronic ear conditions can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss, depending on whether they are treated or not. We advise quick action for any potential infections or symptoms.

Treatments for hearing loss in children 

​The good news is there are several treatment options for a child suffering hearing loss, with the choice of treatment varying based on the cause and severity of the impairment. These options include:
 
Hearing Aids: These devices amplify sound to assist children with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Cochlear Implants: Ideal for children with severe to profound hearing loss when hearing aids do not provide sufficient benefit.

Medication: Can be used to treat hearing loss resulting from infections or inflammation.

Surgery: Addresses structural issues within the ear or involves the implantation of devices to enhance hearing.
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Speech and Language Therapy: Offers support to improve communication skills.
Assistive Listening Devices: Enhance sound quality in specific environments, such as classrooms.

Concluding thoughts on hearing loss in children

To sum up, early identification and intervention are significant in reducing the effect of hearing loss on a child’s learning development as well as quality of life.
If you have any queries about hearing loss in children, please don’t hesitate to contact us or check out our blog for more details.