Pediatric Hearing
Hearing Loss in Children
Hearing plays a critical role in a child’s speech, language, social, and emotional development. When hearing loss is present, whether from birth or acquired later, it can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to communicate, learn, and thrive. Early identification and intervention are key to supporting healthy development and giving children the best opportunity to reach their full potential.
Hearing loss in children can range from mild to profound and may affect one or both ears. Causes include congenital conditions, frequent ear infections (otitis media), head trauma, exposure to loud noise, or illnesses such as meningitis or measles. In some cases, hearing loss may be temporary and treatable; in others, it may be permanent and require long-term management.
Signs of Hearing Loss in Your Child
- Not startling to loud noises
- Delayed speech or language development
- Difficulty following verbal instructions
- Frequently saying "what?" or appearing inattentive
- Speaking loudly or watching others to imitate speech
Pediatric Hearing Services
At our Marlowe MD ENT, we offer comprehensive pediatric hearing evaluations tailored to each child’s age and developmental stage. For infants and toddlers, we may use non-invasive tests like otoacoustic emissions (OAE) and auditory brainstem response (ABR). For older children, we use age-appropriate behavioral testing in a sound-treated environment.
If hearing loss is detected, treatment options may include medical management, hearing aids, bone-anchored hearing devices, or referral for cochlear implant evaluation. We work closely with parents, pediatricians, and educators to create a care plan that supports the child’s communication needs at home, in school, and in social settings.
If you suspect your child may have hearing loss, don’t wait. Early evaluation can make all the difference in speech and language development. Contact us today to schedule a pediatric hearing assessment and give your child the best start.
