Dedicated Treatment for Pediatric Hearing Loss

An audiologist looks inside the inner ear of a pediatric patient using a medical tool.

Whether you’re reading a story or singing them a lullaby, there are many sounds you want your child to experience. If they’re having trouble hearing, ENT NOW – Des Peres can provide treatment to make sure they’re able to connect with the world around them.

How Common Is Childhood Hearing Loss?

According to the CDC’s 2019 Hearing Screening and Follow-up Survey, 1.7 per 1,000 babies screened were diagnosed with hearing loss. Additionally, the CDC found that between 1997 and 2005, 5 per 1,000 children ages 3-17 experienced hearing loss.

What Are the Symptoms of Pediatric Hearing Loss?

Your child should be tested for hearing loss if they experience the following:

  • A delay in speech and language development
  • Failure to respond to loud noises or your voice
  • Poor academic performance
  • Frequent ear infections
  • Conditions associated with hearing loss, such as Down syndrome or autism
  • Family history of hearing loss

What Leads to Hearing Loss in Children?

From causes present at birth, like genetic factors or complications during pregnancy, to acquired causes like ear infections or head injuries, there are a variety of reasons why children experience hearing loss. No matter the cause, our team will be there to support your family.

Treating Pediatric Hearing Loss Early Has Many Benefits

a child swings above the grass as they hold hands with their grandparents

Especially under the age of three, children’s brains are developing rapidly. Sounds are an important part of this and help develop neurological pathways for speech, language and hearing. Additionally, children with untreated hearing loss often experience difficulties learning vocabulary, grammar and elements of verbal communication.

Hearing also provides a variety of social-emotional benefits for children, including

  • Opportunities for bonding with parents by hearing their voices consistently at a young age
  • Increased connections to friends and peers in school
  • Better communication skills by helping with speech development

Take The Next Steps

If you think your child may be experiencing hearing loss, there are a variety of treatments available. At ENT NOW – Des Peres, we’ll determine which one will work best for them and guide your family through the process.