Symptoms of Hearing Loss in Children

Hearing loss can appear at any age – but it is more pressing, as with all medical issues, when it occurs in children. There are many causes of hearing loss in children. Short-term factors such as ear infections and wax build-up can cause blockages – which are likely to go away with proper treatment.

It’s stressful and upsetting when a child isn’t meeting the developmental milestones they should. And there can be long-term conditions where early diagnosis is crucial.

This article will look at some of the symptoms of hearing loss in children. If you believe your child is experiencing hearing loss, it’s something to take seriously, and a hearing test aid may be needed for your peace of mind.

Signs of Hearing Loss in Children

Because a child will not always tell you when they don’t hear well if you suspect your child is experiencing hearing loss, there are some common signs and symptoms you need to look for:

• Fails to respond to their name.
• Does not react to voices.
• Doesn’t react to nearby sounds or is unable to detect where they are coming from.
• Issues with linguistic development.
• Behavioural and social problems, including an inability to follow directions.

These can indicate a range of issues, so let’s look at these symptoms further and examine some common causes.

Issues with Linguistic Development

The development of language children is an incredibly complex process that has been under the microscope of medical professionals, psychologists, and linguists for decades. And with the breadth of scientific research, a range of issues can contribute to a lack of speech. It’s not always the result of an audiological problem, but it can be.

Common symptoms include

• Limited, poor, or no speech.
• Speaking differently to their peers.
• Responding inappropriately to questions.
• Difficulty learning.
• Babbling at an age when they should be talking.
• Struggling to articulate their words.
• Behavioural problems or social difficulties.

Typically, children at the age of three can speak in three or four-word sentences. You should be aware that this is a guideline, and speech delay may not always indicate a serious problem – in many cases, a child will quickly catch up to their peers.

That said, waiting can be dangerous, and a hearing test will confirm if that is the case or if there are other issues. These could range from general hearing loss to deeper developmental problems, including conditions such as autism and ADHD.

Hearing Loss As a Result Of Genetic Causes

About half of all cases of hearing loss in children are due to genetic causes, and your doctor will look at your family’s medical history to determine whether this is the case. These issues often occur at birth (congenital), as opposed to an acquired condition that occurs further into your child’s development, although congenial issues might not reveal themselves until later.
It’s also important to note that hearing loss and genetic syndromes often go hand in hand, at a rate of around 1 in 3, with issues such as Downs and Usher syndrome frequently occurring alongside hearing loss.

Hearing Loss as a Result of Complications at Birth

Hearing loss can result from various pre-natal and post-partum issues. Some of these include

• Maternal infections acquired before birth, including meningitis.
• Head injuries.
• Deformities to the head (these can be indicative of other issues that result in hearing loss)
• Procedures were conducted in an intensive care unit due to complications at birth.

Hearing Loss as a Result of Other Issues

Many infections that adults respond to generally well can be especially harmful to babies and young children. The symptoms may be compounded or felt to a greater degree. Some can result in acquired hearing loss that has permanent effects, while others are resolved as the child gets better.

Some issues that may result in acquired hearing loss:

• Viral infections – including meningitis, measles, and mumps.
• Head trauma.
• Frequent ear infections.
• Noise-induced hearing loss as a result of loud noise.

Some issues that cause temporary hearing loss:

• Swimmer’s ear.
• Middle ear infections – these are very common among young children.
• Blocking as a result of earwax or foreign objects.

Should I Get a Hearing Test If My Child Experiencing Hearing Loss Symptoms?

If your child is experiencing hearing loss symptoms, it’s vital that you get them looked at quickly by a hearing professional. They’ll help to isolate the root cause, provide you with advice, and direct you to the next step if necessary.

You can book a comprehensive, expertly assessed hearing test today with El Dorado Hearing.