Discovering that a newborn has hearing loss can be a devastating and emotionally difficult experience for many parents, leaving them feeling lost and uncertain about what the future has in store. Babies with hearing loss can do well with early diagnosis and treatment, which is positive news. Indeed, they are able to gaining linguistic abilities, refining their communication skills, and forming profound connections with their surroundings, ultimately giving rise to a rich and fulfilling existence.
Two of the most effective tools for assisting babies with hearing loss are hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Comprehending Hearing Loss in Babies
Causes of infant hearing loss: Various factors to think about:
- Genetic factors (even without a family history)
- Congenital infections including cytomegalovirus (CMV) or rubella
- Complications during birth, such as lack of oxygen or prematurity
- Medications commonly administered in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
Early diagnosis is critical. That’s why infants in the United States are evaluated for hearing loss before leaving the hospital. Pediatric hearing experts follow the “1-3-6” standard:
- Screened by 1 month
- Diagnosed by 3 months
- Intervention (with hearing devices or therapy) begun by 6 months
Reaching these developmental milestones is crucial for infants to reach optimal progress in speech, language, and cognitive growth. For individualized guidance on these screenings, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician.
Hearing Aids for Babies and Toddlers
Hearing aids are frequently the first treatment solution for babies who have varying degrees of hearing impairment. These tiny, portable devices boost audio signals, allowing infants to better detect and understand voices and surrounding noises.
Hearing aids are:
- Safe for babies as young as a few weeks old
- Crafted with gentle, cozy earpieces that adapt according to the baby’s development
- Outfitted with tamper-proof battery doors and pediatric-specific features
- Specifically individualized by a pediatric hearing professional to fit your child’s unique auditory needs
As your baby develops, it will be necessary to regularly update and tweak the hearing aids to guarantee they fit properly and work properly.
Cochlear Implants for Babies
A cochlear implant might be recommended for a baby with extreme to profound sensorineural hearing loss who does not receive sufficient benefit from hearing aids.
Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants:
- Are surgically implanted
- Recover hearing by circumventing inner ear damage
- Convert sound into electrical signals that energize the auditory nerve directly
Cochlear implants are:
- Approved by the FDA for use in babies aged 9 to 12 months
- Achieve best results in tandem with therapy at an early stage and family support
- Only recommended after a comprehensive evaluation by an audiologist and an ENT specialist
This process involves the use of imaging, hearing exams, and discussions relating to future prospects and results
Hearing Aids vs. Cochlear Implants: What’s the Difference?
Hearing aids:
- Mild to severe hearing loss
- Non-Invasive
- Sound processing amplification
- Starts at Infancy
Cochlear Implants:
- Severe to profound hearing loss
- Invasive (Surgical)
- Converts Sound Electrical Signals
- Starts at 9-12 Months
Comparing Sound Enhancement Options: A Concluding Analysis
If your baby has been diagnosed with hearing loss, you have solutions and a lot of support. Because of the expertise of hearing specialists who deal with children, the majority of young patients are able to obtain language skills that are comparable to those of their peers.
Whether your child is a candidate for hearing aids or cochlear implants, early action can make a lifelong difference.
Do you have any inquiries regarding your infant’s hearing health? Call us now to schedule a complete assessment and tailored treatment plan.
Sources:
cdc.gov/ hearing-loss-children-guide/ parents-guide/understanding-hearing-loss. html.
boystownhospital.org/knowledge-center/hearing-aids-babies.
hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/cochlear-implants/childrens-.
cochlear-implants.
dukehealth.org/blog/hearing-aids-vs-cochlear-implants.