Monterey Hearing Loss in Children
Audiologist Services in Salinas & Monterey
There are a few telltale signs that your child is developing hearing problems. Children with hearing loss may feel isolated socially and unhappy in school, or have difficulty with all academic areas, especially reading and math. Children with untreated mild to moderate hearing losses typically achieve 1-4 grade levels lower than their peers and these gaps can widen as they progress through school. When the hearing loss is severe, the child may not be able to advance beyond 3rd or 4th grade curriculum.
What are signs of hearing loss in children?
- The child has difficulty speaking
- The child may speak louder than usual
- Seems to ignore when people call out to him or her
- They do not respond when you call to them
- Turns the TV volume up unreasonably high
- His or her answers to questions seem "off," as if they understood the question but heard it differently than it was asked
Children suffering hearing loss do not catch up without intervention. Their ultimate level of achievement is related to parental involvement and the quantity, quality and timing of the support services that they receive.
To have your child examined by a capable Monterey audiologist at Central Coast Audiology, Inc., call (831) 216-1281 to schedule an appointment.
Hearing Loss in Children is Common
More than 1 million children in the U.S. have hearing loss, and 83 out of every 1000 children in the U.S. have a hearing loss that significantly effects their education. Out of every 1000 school-age students in the U.S., 7 have a bilateral hearing loss and 19 have a unilateral hearing loss that may significantly interfere with their education.
Unfortunately, if the child's condition is never diagnosed then they could trail behind in school for years. Very few teachers even consider the possibility that a child has a hearing condition and may recommend the child be held back a grade. A simple hearing test by a Salinas hearing specialist can make a serious difference in the child's social and educational development.
Effects of Hearing Loss in Children
Hearing is crucial to speech and language development, communication and learning. The earlier hearing loss occurs in a child's life, the more serious the effects on the child's development. Likewise, the earlier the problem is identified and intervention begun, the less serious overall impact on the child.
Hearing loss in children causes delays in the development of speech and language. Because they often cannot hear word endings or quiet speech sounds like "s", "sh", "f", "t", and "k", they don't produce them in their own speech and their speech may be difficult to understand. Their vocabulary develops more slowly, they have trouble understanding abstract words and words with multiple meanings and have difficulty producing and understanding complex sentences.
Otitis Media
This is the most common cause of hearing loss in young children. Otitis media is an inflammation in the middle ear and is usually associated with a buildup of fluid behind the eardrum. This fluid, which may or may not be infected, causes a temporary, fluctuating conductive hearing loss hearing loss. This hearing loss may be mild to moderate in severity and result in speech sounds being muffled or inaudible to the child. In cases where otitis media occurs over and over again, permanent damage to the middle ear system and sometimes the hearing nerve can occur.
Can Hearing Loss in Children Be Treated?
Depending on the cause and severity of the hearing loss, treatment options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices, as well as speech and language therapy to facilitate communication skills. An appointment with our Monterey hearing loss specialists can help you provide the care the your child needs.
Call Today to Have Your Child's Hearing Examined
Hearing loss is extremely difficult on children if it is not diagnosed early on. Most children have a hard time communicating that they are having trouble hearing, and may not even realize it is a problem. Our lead Monterey audiologist has placed special emphasis on working with children age 10 and up. We know what to look for and what remedies will help the patient enjoy a life full of sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I have my child's hearing tested?
It is recommended that all children have their hearing tested at birth and again at 4-6 months of age. If you have any concerns about your child's hearing development, early evaluation is essential.
What are the benefits of early intervention for hearing loss in children?
Early intervention can significantly improve language development, social skills, and overall quality of life for children with hearing loss. Children who receive early intervention are more likely to achieve their full potential.
Can hearing loss be prevented?
While some cases of hearing loss are genetic and cannot be prevented, many others can be. Prenatal care, safe listening practices, and timely treatment of ear infections can reduce the risk of hearing loss in children.
What are the social and emotional implications of hearing loss in children?
Hearing loss can impact a child's social and emotional development. Children with hearing loss may experience feelings of isolation, frustration, or low self-esteem. Social skills training, counseling, and support groups can help children develop healthy coping mechanisms and build strong social connections.
If you have any questions about hearing loss in children, or would like to have your child examined in Monterey or Salinas, call (831) 216-1281.
