A newborn should receive a variety of medical tests upon entering the world, and hearing screenings are no exception. These tests allow providers to determine if your child was born with hearing loss and help them provide the care that will best fit the infant’s needs.
What Is Newborn Hearing Testing?
Newborns typically receive an exam to check their hearing prior to leaving the hospital. The most common procedure is an Otoacoustic Emissions Test, which examines the inner ear.
Many states require hearing testing prior to the child leaving the hospital for the first time. If they do not receive it, then babies should be tested for hearing loss within one month of their birth.
What Happens if My Child Doesn’t Pass the Test?
Some babies do not pass the initial hearing exam because of fluid in the ears or crying during the procedure. Additional testing will determine if they have hearing loss and is the first step in providing them with the best treatment. It’s important to have a follow-up exam as soon as possible and within three months at the latest.
What Are Common Causes of Infant Hearing Loss?
- Premature birth
- Frequent ear infections
- Infections like meningitis or cytomegalovirus
- Exposure to loud noises
- Family history of hearing loss
What Are the Benefits of Early Screening?
Young children use their hearing to develop a variety of skills, including communication, language development and social-emotional abilities. Hearing loss may cause setbacks in these areas, but treatment will make sure they’re able to excel in these areas.
What Treatments Are Available for Childhood Hearing Loss?
If your child has hearing loss, there are a variety of options that will allow them to fully engage with the world around them. At Glacier ENT & Hearing Services, we’ll take the time to determine what will work best for them. Whether it’s hearing aids for children or a cochlear implant, we’re here to support your family through the process.
Call Glacier ENT & Hearing Services for more information or to schedule an appointment.