Discovering that a newborn has hearing loss can be an upsetting and emotionally challenging experience for many parents, leaving them feeling lost and unclear about what the future holds. But the bright side is: With early diagnosis and treatment, babies with hearing loss can thrive. Yes, they can even develop language, communication skills, and strong relationships with the world around them, leading to a dynamic, rewarding life!
Hearing aids and cochlear implants are two highly helpful tools for assisting babies with hearing loss.
Comprehending Infant Hearing Loss
Hearing loss in infants can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Hereditary characteristics (even in the absence of a family background)
- Infections present at birth like cytomegalovirus (CMV) or rubella.
- Complications during birth, such as lack of oxygen or prematurity
- Medications often administered in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
Early detection is crucial. That’s why infants in the United States are screened 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
Reaching these developmental milestones is essential for infants to achieve optimal progress in speech, language, and cognitive growth. For personalized guidance on these screenings, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician.
Hearing Aids for Babies and Toddlers
Hearing aids are frequently the initial treatment solution for infants who have varying degrees of hearing loss. These little, wearable devices boost sound, helping infants hear speech and external sounds more clearly.
Hearing aids are:
- Appropriate for infants just a few weeks old
- Designed with soft, comfortable ear molds that adjust as the baby grows
- Equipped with tamper-proof battery compartments and pediatric-specific features
- Specially tailored by a pediatric hearing expert to fit your child’s unique auditory needs
As your infant grows, it will be necessary to regularly update and tweak the hearing aids to guarantee they fit correctly and work properly.
Cochlear Implants for Infants
If a baby 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
- Circumvent damaged parts of the inner ear
- Convert audio into electric impulses that directly activate the hearing nerve
Cochlear implants are:
- FDA-approved for babies as young as 9-12 months
- Most successful when paired with early treatment and family support
- Recommended only after a thorough evaluation by an audiologist and ENT specialist
This procedure includes 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 Solutions: A Final Analysis
If your infant has been diagnosed with hearing loss, you have options and plenty of support. With the assistance of pediatric hearing specialists, lots of children go on to establish language skills that are on par with their peers.
Taking prompt action can have a far-reaching and lasting effect on a child’s life, regardless of whether they need hearing aids or cochlear implants to deal with their hearing needs.
Do you have any concerns regarding your infant’s hearing wellness? Contact us now to schedule a comprehensive evaluation 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.