Discovering that an infant has hearing loss can be an upsetting and emotionally difficult experience for many parents, leaving them feeling lost and uncertain about what the future holds. Babies who have hearing loss can do well with early detection and intervention, which is good news. Indeed, they are capable of gaining linguistic abilities, refining their communication skills, and forming profound connections with their surroundings, ultimately bring about a rich and fulfilling existence.
Two of the most reliable tools for assisting infants with hearing loss are hearing aids and cochlear implants. We’ll discover how they function and offer guidance on selecting the best solution for your child’s needs.
Comprehending Hearing Loss in Babies
Causes of infant hearing loss: Numerous aspects to consider:
- Hereditary traits (even in the absence of a family background)
- Congenital infections like cytomegalovirus (CMV) or rubella
- Problems that might occur during childbirth, such as oxygen deprivation or premature birth.
- Certain medications used in neonatal intensive care
Early diagnosis is crucial. That’s why babies 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) started by 6 months
Achieving these milestones gives babies the best opportunity for strong speech, language, and brain development. If you need advice on these screenings, your pediatrician will be happy to help!
Hearing Aids for Babies
Hearing aids are frequently the first treatment option for babies who have differing degrees of hearing impairment. These small, wearable devices amplify sound, helping infants hear speech and external sounds more clearly.
Hearing aids are:
- Safe for infants as young as a few weeks old
- Made with soft, comfortable ear molds that adjust as the baby grows
- Featuring secure battery compartments and child-friendly design features
- Custom-programmed by a pediatric audiologist to fit your child’s hearing profile
As your baby grows, hearing aids will need to be calibrated regularly to ensure correct fit and performance.
Cochlear Implants for Babies
If an infant has severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss and doesn’t improve enough from hearing aids, a cochlear implant may be suggested.
Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants:
- Are surgically embeded
- Recover hearing by bypassing inner ear damage
- Convert audio into electric impulses that directly activate the hearing nerve
Benefits of Cochlear Implants:
- FDA-approved for babies as young as 9-12 months
- Accomplish best results in combination with therapy at an early stage and family support
- Recommended only after a thorough evaluation by an audiologist and ENT specialist
This procedure involves the use of imaging, hearing examinations, and dialogues relating to future prospects and results
How Cochlear Implants Differ from Traditional Hearing Aids
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: Final Thoughts
If your infant has been diagnosed with hearing loss, you have options and plenty of assistance. With the assistance of pediatric hearing experts, many children go on to develop language skills that are on par with 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 concerns regarding your infant’s hearing wellness? Call us now to schedule a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment strategy.
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.