These Five Facts About Children and Hearing Loss May Surprise You

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These Five Facts About Children and Hearing Loss May Surprise You

Loss of hearing can occur during childhood, adolescents, or even at birth. In fact, nearly 12 percent of kids age 6 through 19 have noise induced hearing loss according to the American Academy of Audiology. Of all birth defects, hearing loss presents itself more often than any other congenital defect in the United States. In fact, the American Speech and Language Association reports that

approximately 12,000 babies are born each year with hearing loss. Hearing loss may delay your child’s ability to learn normal language skills. – During the formative years between birth and 3, kids have a keen ability to learn

language skills. Young children need to have proper hearing function in order to develop normal speech patterns. Good language skills are very important in order for a young child to learn how to read. Not every type of hearing loss is permanent. – Children can experience hearing loss from many factors, some are reversible such as an ear infection or a build up of earwax in the middle ear. Medical treatment or minor surgery could be the solution to some hearing loss issues, but early intervention is vital. Ear infections left untreated could cause permanent hearing loss, so be sure to





seek medical attention right away when there is a possibility of ear infections. Language development is positively impacted by early intervention. – Early identification and assessment of hearing losses is vital. Studies have shown that infants whose hearing loss is detected after 6 months of age did comparably worse on language skill development compared to infants where the loss was detected and treated before 6 months. Permanent hearing loss can be avoided. – It may be surprising to note that noise related hearing loss is 100 percent avoidable. Using protective ear plugs or ear muffs is a must for protecting kids from noise induced hearing loss. Also, parents should lower the volume on stereos and other electronics. Parents are often times the first to identify early signs of hearing loss in young children. – Many times parents are the first to recognize signs of hearing loss in infants and small children. Response to your voice, noticing noises that toys make (such as rattles), and making babbling sounds are all signs to observe for to ensure infants have normal hearing. Around 9 months of age kids should be repeating back sounds and should also understand some simple phrases and commands. To learn more about recommended screenings and benchmarks to evaluate normal hearing in young kids, consult a hearing specialist or audiologist.





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These Five Facts About Children and Hearing Loss May Surprise You