Pediatrics

Pediatric Audiology is a specialized field of audiology that focuses on diagnosing and treating hearing issues in children. This field is essential because hearing plays a crucial role in a child's ability to develop communication, language, and social skills. A child with unmanaged hearing loss may face significant challenges in these areas.

At Associates in Audiology, we prioritize early detection and treatment of hearing loss, ensuring that every child has the best chance at normal development.

Causes of Childhood Hearing Loss

Hearing loss in children is more common than one might think. Approximately 2 to 3 out of every 1,000 children are born with some degree of hearing impairment.

The causes of childhood hearing loss are varied. Some children are born with congenital hearing loss, which can be due to genetic factors, prenatal infections, or certain diseases. In other cases, hearing loss can arise from complications related to various illnesses.

Ear infections, for instance, are a frequent cause of hearing loss in young children. By the time they reach the age of three, 75% of children will have experienced at least one bout of otitis media, an inflammation of the middle ear. This condition often results in the accumulation of fluid that can cause temporary or even permanent hearing loss.

Signs of Hearing Loss in Children

Recognizing the signs of hearing loss in children is crucial for ensuring early intervention and treatment. Below are some common signs you might notice:

• Developmental delays, such as not starting to speak at the expected age
• Inattention or lack of response when their name is called
• Frequent requests for increased volume on television or music
• Difficulty following directions
• Mood swings or changes in behaviour

In infants, a lack of response to loud noises can be an early sign of hearing loss. If you notice any of these signs in your child, it may be time to consult a pediatric audiologist.

Impact of Hearing Loss on Child Development

Untreated hearing loss can have far-reaching implications for a child's development. During early childhood, kids learn to communicate by listening to those around them. When this ability is compromised, it can lead to delays in speech and language acquisition.

Moreover, children with hearing loss may also experience challenges in their emotional, social, and intellectual development. They may have difficulty forming relationships with peers, struggle academically, and experience lower self-esteem. Even mild hearing loss or unilateral (one ear) hearing loss can lead to developmental delays.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection and management of hearing loss are critical for minimizing its impact on a child's development. At Associates in Audiology, we conduct comprehensive hearing evaluations to identify any issues as early as possible.

Once hearing loss is detected, we recommend appropriate interventions and treatments to help your child continue to grow and develop successfully. The earlier the intervention, the better the outcome.

Pediatric Hearing Evaluations

We use a variety of tests to assess hearing in children, tailored to their age and understanding ability. Some of these tests include:

• Behavioral Audiometry: This test is used for infants and monitors their behavior in response to various sounds.
• Audiometry Games: For toddlers, we use games to encourage them to respond to sounds played through headphones.
• Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA): In this test, children are taught to look towards a sound source. Correct responses are rewarded with visual reinforcement.
• Pure Tone Audiometry and Tympanometry: For children above three, these tests assess their ability to respond to different sounds and evaluate the function of the middle ear.

Treatment Options

Once a hearing loss is diagnosed, we work closely with families to determine the best course of treatment. This could range from medical interventions to the fitting of hearing aids. Our goal is always to ensure that your child can hear and communicate effectively.

If you have concerns about your child's hearing, don't hesitate to contact us and schedule a pediatric hearing test. We're here to help you and your child navigate the journey to better hearing.