For parents of newborns, learning that their baby has hearing loss will feel overwhelming and discouraging. But the bright side is: With early detection and intervention, babies with hearing loss can thrive. Yes, they can even develop language, communication skills, and strong connections with the world around them, resulting in a vibrant, rewarding life!
Two of the most reliable solutions for assisting infants with hearing loss are hearing aids and cochlear implants. Below, we will have a look at how they function and how to know which one is right for your child.
Comprehending Infant Hearing Loss
Causes of infant hearing loss: Numerous aspects to consider:
- Hereditary traits (even in the absence of a family background)
- Infections present at birth like cytomegalovirus (CMV) or rubella.
- Complications at birth, including lack of oxygen or prematurity
- Certain medications used in neonatal intensive care
Early detection is crucial. Babies in the United States undergo hearing loss screening before being discharged from the hospital. Pediatric specialists adhere to “1-3-6” hearing protocol.
- 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 babies to achieve optimal progress in speech, language, and cognitive growth. For personalized advice on these assessments, don’t wait to reach out to your pediatrician.
Hearing Aids for Infants
Hearing aids are frequently the initial treatment option for babies who have varying degrees of hearing loss. These little, portable devices boost audio signals, enabling infants to better detect and comprehend voices and surrounding noises.
Hearing aids are:
- Suitable for newborns just a few weeks old
- Designed with soft, comfortable ear molds that change as the baby grows
- Offering secure battery doors and child-friendly design features
- Specifically tailored by a pediatric hearing professional to fit your child’s distinct auditory needs
As your baby grows, hearing aids will need to be adjusted regularly to guarantee proper fit and effectiveness.
Cochlear Implants for Babies
If a baby has extreme to profound sensorineural hearing loss and doesn’t benefit enough from hearing aids, a cochlear implant might be suggested.
Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants:
- Are embedded with a surgical procedure
- Restore hearing by circumventing inner ear damage
- Convert sound into electrical signals that energize the auditory nerve directly
Benefits of Cochlear Implants:
- Approved by the FDA for use in infants aged 9 to 12 months
- Accomplish best results in tandem with therapy at an early stage and family support
- Only suggested after a complete evaluation by an audiologist and an ENT specialist
This procedure involves the use of imaging, hearing exams, and dialogues 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
Hearing Aids vs. Cochlear Implants: Concluding Thoughts
Following a diagnosis of hearing loss in your infant, a number of choices and resources are accessible to help you get through this experience. Because of the expertise of hearing specialists who work with children, the majority of young patients are able to obtain language skills that are equivalent to those of their peers.
Whether your child is a candidate for hearing aids or cochlear implants, early action can make a long-lasting difference.
Do you have any inquiries regarding your infant’s hearing wellness? Contact us now to set up a comprehensive 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.