While hearing loss is often associated with older adults, it can present at any age. For children with hearing issues, early diagnosis is essential to prevent significant developmental delays and disruptions. Here’s what you should know about how to assess your child’s hearing and how an audiologist can help.

Symptoms

Children develop at different rates, but generally, babies should be able to follow simple instructions and have words for some everyday objects within 15 to 24 months. Within one to two years old, they will start putting two words together, begin asking questions and naming pictures in books.  By 18 months, they should be able to say about eight to 10 words, and by their second birthday, as many as 50 or more. Kids learn to speak by listening and mimicking, so if they are unable to hear correctly, they may have difficulty forming words.

A sign that older children may have trouble hearing is if they listen to music or the TV at an exceptionally high volume. Try turning the volume down and asking questions to determine if they can still understand what’s being said. 

While all kids need an occasional reminder to use their inside voice, a child who speaks loudly all the time could have trouble hearing. Observe if your child maintains the same volume during conversations in a quiet environment. If so, they may need a hearing test.

Unexplained academic struggles can be another sign of hearing trouble. If a child has hearing difficulties, they may misunderstand their teachers and struggle to follow the lesson. They may also be ashamed or frustrated by their lack of comprehension and could be hesitant to speak up. Rather than assuming it’s a behavioral issue or learning disability, have their hearing checked to see if this is the cause.

Diagnosis & Treatment

About half of babies with hearing loss inherited it genetically  Some genetic syndromes have hearing loss associated with them such as Down, Usher, Treacher Collins, Crouzon and Alport Syndromes. Children can also acquire hearing loss due to infection, complications at birth, illness, injury and noise exposure. A differently-shaped head or ears may also result in hearing difficulties. 

If you suspect your child may have hearing loss, take them to a hearing specialist. The doctor will perform a hearing test and examine your child’s ears to diagnose the problem. The treatment will depend on what caused the loss of hearing and could range from surgery to hearing aids.

If you’re concerned your child may be experiencing hearing loss, turn to the compassionate and experienced audiologists at Augusta Audiology Associates, PC. Located in Fishersville, VA, they have offered hearing assessments and personalized hearing loss treatment for nearly 25 years. Call (540) 332-5790 to speak with a friendly team member to schedule an appointment. Visit their website to learn more about their services.