Your child’s hearing affects how they perceive and interact with the world around them. Therefore, it is crucial to prevent or minimize hearing loss and impairment during this period in time. Learning about the causes of hearing problems in children will help you prevent it and be prepared to handle it if it does occur. Below is a brief guide to hearing loss in children.

Common Causes of Hearing Loss In Children

Hearing impairment will be classified as either congenital (present at birth) or acquired (appearing after birth). Congenital impairment is often caused by diseases that affect the formation or development of ear structures. 

Acquired hearing impairment is commonly caused by otitis media, a middle ear infection which causes fluid buildup in the middle ear that blocks sound transmission. Obstructions in the ear canal (such as food or pieces from toys), fluid buildup from allergies or head colds, and excessive or compressed earwax can also contribute to hearing problems until the cause is addressed. Head injuries and exposure to loud or sudden noises can lead to ear damage and hearing impairment. Medical conditions such as mumps, chickenpox, measles, meningitis and the flu may cause hearing loss as well.

Prevention & Hearing Protection Tips

The best form of hearing protection is to help your child avoid loud or sudden noises like live music, fireworks, or building demolitions. Getting them vaccinated to protect against diseases associated with hearing difficulties is also crucial. If your child does contract illnesses associated with hearing impairment, have their ears checked by an audiologist for signs of hearing loss once they are well.

If you’re currently pregnant or are planning to be in the future, be sure to minimize your risk of getting sick by practicing rigorous hygiene and staying away from people you know are ill. Supervise your children to prevent foreign objects from getting in their ears. Monitor the loudness level used when they are listening through headphones or earbuds. Make sure they use hearing protection either in the form of headphones or earplugs when exposed to loud noise levels such as that from concerts, sports events and equipment with motors such as a lawnmower.

Are you concerned your child has hearing loss? Have their hearing checked by licensed audiologists at Augusta Audiology Associates, PC in Fishersville, VA. For over 25 years,  we have offered a gold standard of care with comprehensive services, including hearing evaluations, hearing aids, and tinnitus management. Our individualized care focuses on meeting the needs and exceeding the expectations of every patient. Contact our office at (540) 332-5790 for an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you!