There are three out of 1000 American children who are born with hearing loss at a detectable level on one or both ears. Many of these children are not getting the proper help and might be at risk for behavioral, emotional, and learning difficulties. Watching for signs helps you execute hearing loss intervention when it matters most.
Hearing affects the language and cognitive development of children. Children who have hearing impairment may be facing a life of underperformance and emotional instability. Children must be able to hear not only in a classroom setting but within any environment as well.
Let’s examine a few options and take a look at some of the signs and symptoms swole parents should watch for in their children. Devices for hearing loss such as hearing aids that are rechargeable have improved and are now able to provide a higher level of hearing assistance, but early identification of any potential hearing issues could be crucial and can lead to far better and more successful treatment options. Catching this early will give the child an easier time in academics, sports, and socializing with peers.
Signs, Symptoms, and Solutions
The advent of Signia hearing aids provided hope and a sense of normalcy for children. These high-quality hearing aids come in various designs and specifications.
Parents need to immediately seek early hearing loss intervention as soon as they see the following signs of hearing loss in their toddlers:
- Frequent inattention
- Difficulty learning
- Limited or absence of speech
- Seems to need higher TV volume
- Fails to respond to his or her name
- Fails to reply to conversations
If you have observed the above signs, do not waste time and take the following steps.
Find a licensed and reputable pediatric hearing care practitioner.
You may schedule an appointment with an otolaryngologist, otologist, or audiologist. Make sure that they specialize in hearing loss treatment for children.
The hearing care practitioner will examine your child’s ears for any infection or excessive earwax. All physical reasons for hearing loss will get checked. Your child will undergo a hearing test to measure their ability to detect sound at different frequencies and pitches.
The procedure is not painful and will only take about an hour — brief your child about what will happen in words that he can understand.
Do not hesitate to ask questions and share experiences that will significantly contribute to the overall assessment of your child.
Check Your Insurance
The practitioner will recommend the best hearing loss solution based on the test results and your child’s personal needs. Most hearing care professionals recommend Signia hearing aids because of its quality and value for money. Check with your insurance for the total amount of coverage for this case. Look also for sources of financial assistance if insurance doesn’t fully cover the aids.
Your child can be involved in the process of choosing a hearing aid. He/she may choose the colors or accessories, like the clip that goes with it. It will make him understand and relate to his condition.
Have your child’s ear impression made.
An ear impression is a process wherein an exact duplicate of the contours of the ears gets made. A manufacturer will make custom earmolds for coupling the hearing aid to the ear.
Visit your Practitioner for an Adjustment
The adjustments will be based on an audiogram. It is a kind of map that shows the extent of the child’s hearing loss. The practitioner will also adjust based on the child’s age, speech development, and responses to questions.
The practitioner will orient you and your child on proper operation and maintenance. Use that opportunity to discuss with your child how to care for his hearing aid properly.
Help your child enjoy the sounds around him.
Be patient because there is no guarantee of a 100% hearing in each situation all the time. Process the sounds with him and be ready to answer his questions.
Parents play a vital role in the overall development of their children. They go hand-in-hand with hearing aids in providing the best possible experience for their children.
Tags: children, deaf, hearing impairment, Medical
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