Signs OF Hearing Loss In Children

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Hearing Loss

Hearing plays a crucial role in a child’s development. Especially, with good hearing capacity, children can improve their language skills, social interactions, and academic performance. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 34 million children worldwide suffer from hearing loss, with nearly 60% of cases being preventable or treatable. So, early hearing loss detection and treatment is important. If hearing loss is untreated, children will suffer from delayed speech and social isolation and fail to progress in academics. Since many parents and caregivers have been unaware of the signs of hearing loss in children, in this blog, we aim to educate and empower them to take proactive steps toward protecting the hearing health of children.  Continue reading to understand the signs and symptoms of hearing loss in children.

Types And Causes OF Hearing Loss In Children

Hearing loss in children can be categorized into these three types:

Conductive Hearing Loss: This happens when sound waves are unable to enter the inner ear, as a result of otosclerosis or middle ear infections (otitis media).

Sensorineural Hearing Loss: This occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve because of genetics, exposure to loud noises, or head trauma.

Mixed Hearing Loss: This type happen when there are problems in the middle or outer ear (conductive hearing loss) and inner ear (sensorineural hearing loss).

These are some common causes of hearing loss in children

      • Genetics

      • Infections such as mumps, measles, and otitis media

      • Trauma to the head, such as concussions

      • Certain medications like chemotherapy

      • Environmental factors such as extended exposure to loud noises and secondhand smoke

    Note that, understanding the primary types and causes of hearing loss is critical for prevention, early detection, and effective treatment.

    Signs OF Hearing Loss In Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years)

    It is important to identify hearing loss in newborns and toddlers for timely intervention. Watch out for these signs:

        • Failure to respond to sounds, voices, or names

        • No reaction to loud noises

        • Not imitating sounds or words by 12 months

        • No cooing or babbling by 6 months

        • Not turning head towards the source of a sound

        • No gesturing (pointing, waving) by 12 months

        • Tilting head or covering ears frequently

      If you observe any of these symptoms, see your pediatrician for a hearing screening. Early detection and intervention have a substantial impact on language development and long-term academic success.

      Note: Newborn hearing screening is mandatory. If your child’s hearing was not examined at birth, schedule a hearing test within 3 months.

      Signs OF Hearing Loss In Preschoolers (4-5 years)

      Children may show new symptoms of hearing loss as they start preschool. So, make sure to look out for these signs:

          • Struggle to understand instructions and follow simple directions

          • Frequently raise repetition requests like “what?”, or “huh?”

          • Misunderstand similar sounding words

          • Watch TVs or videos with high-volume

          • Struggle to hear the conversation in a noisy environment

          • Limited vocabulary

          • Struggle to form sentences

          • Become frustrated when communicating

          • Avoid group conversations

        Signs OF Hearing Loss In School-Age Children (6-12 years)

        Hearing loss can affect social interactions and academic performances as children enter elementary school. Hence, keep an eye out for these hearing loss signs in school-age children:

            • Reluctant to participate in classroom conversations and activities

            • Struggle to understand teacher instructions and asks for repetitions

            • Decline in academic scores or grades

            • Avoid phone calls or video chats

            • Raise complaints of ear pain or discomfort

            • Avoid group conversations or social interactions

            • Frequent headaches or fatigue

          Behavioral And Social Signs OF Hearing Loss In Children

          Hearing loss can significantly affect a child’s conduct and social interaction. Therefore, look out for these behavioral and social signs of hearing loss in children.

              • Withdraw from extracurricular activities

              • Avoid social gatherings and group conversations

              • Less interaction with friends and family

              • Feel embarrassed or self-conscious about hearing difficulties

              • Low self-esteem or decreased confidence

              • Struggle to concentrate or follow instructions

              • Become easily frustrated or irritated

              • Display inattentive or restless behavior

            How To Identify Hearing Loss In Children

            Regular hearing screenings are important to detect hearing loss in children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends:

                • Newborn hearing screening within the first few days of birth

                • Hearing tests at 6, 12, and 24 months

                • Annual hearing screenings from 3 to 18 years

              Other than hearing tests, monitoring developmental milestones and behavioral signs will also help to identify hearing loss in children.

              The following are some common pediatric hearing tests conducted to assess the hearing capacity of children

                  • Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) test: Measure the ear’s response to sound

                  • Pure Tone Audiometry: Evaluate the threshold for hearing

                  • Tympanometry: Assess the function of the middle ear

                  • Speech Audiometry: Test speech understanding

                What To Do IF You Suspect Hearing Loss

                If you think your child may have hearing loss,

                    • Get a thorough hearing evaluation from your pediatrician or an audiologist

                    • Follow the prescribed treatment plans that include cochlear implants, speech therapy, or hearing aids.

                    • Get in touch with educators and caregivers to guarantee support and accommodations.

                  Early intervention has a major impact on hearing loss treatment and management outcomes. So, don’t delay to consult a hearing healthcare specialist. With the early intervention, you can achieve the following:

                      • Prevent language delays and learning difficulties

                      • Enhance speech development and social skills

                      • Improve academic performance and self-esteem

                      • Lifelong communication and social success

                    Conclusion

                    It is critical to recognize the signs and symptoms of hearing loss in children for early intervention and effective management. So, keep an eye on your child’s hearing health, recognize the warning signals, and seek professional advice if you have any concerns. By prioritizing hearing health, you can help your child realize their full potential.

                    Are you concerned about your child’s hearing? For expert pediatric hearing evaluations and personalized care, book an appointment with our experienced audiologists at Asha Speech and Hearing Clinic, New Delhi. Your child’s hearing health matters to us.

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