Discovering that a newborn has hearing loss can be a devastating and emotionally challenging experience for many parents, leaving them feeling lost and uncertain about what the future has in store. But the good news is: With early detection and treatment, infants with hearing loss can thrive. Indeed, they are capable of acquiring linguistic skills, refining their communication techniques, and forming profound bonds with their surroundings, ultimately giving rise to a rich and fulfilling existence.
Two of the most useful solutions for supporting infants with hearing loss are hearing aids and cochlear implants. Below, we will have a look at how they work and how to know which one is right for your child.
Understanding Hearing Loss in Infants
Hearing loss in infants can be caused by a range of factors, including:
- Hereditary characteristics (even in the absence of a family background)
- Infections present at birth such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) or rubella.
- Problems that might occur during childbirth, such as oxygen deprivation or premature birth.
- Medications commonly administered in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
Early detection is critical. Babies in the United States go through hearing loss screening before being discharged from the hospital. Pediatric professionals adhere to “1-3-6” hearing protocol.
- Screened by 1 month
- Diagnosed by 3 months
- Intervention (with hearing devices or therapy) started by 6 months
Reaching these developmental milestones is critical for infants to reach optimal progress in speech, language, and cognitive growth. For individualized guidance on these assessments, don’t wait to reach out to your pediatrician.
Hearing Aids for Babies and Toddlers
Hearing aids are frequently the first treatment option for infants who have varying degrees of hearing impairment. These little, wearable devices amplify sound, helping infants hear speech and external sounds more clearly.
Hearing aids are:
- Safe for babies as young as a few weeks old
- Crafted with gentle, cozy earpieces that adapt according to the baby’s development
- Featuring secure battery doors and child-friendly design features
- Specifically tailored by a pediatric hearing expert to fit your child’s unique auditory needs
As your baby grows, hearing aids will need to be calibrated regularly to ensure correct fit and performance.
Cochlear Implants for Babies
A cochlear implant might be recommended for a baby with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss who does not get adequate benefit from hearing aids.
Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants:
- Are surgically embeded
- Bypass damaged parts of the inner ear
- Translate sound into electrical signals that energize the auditory nerve directly
Cochlear implants are:
- FDA-approved for babies as young as 9-12 months
- Achieve best results in combination with therapy at an early stage and family support
- Only recommended following a complete evaluation by an audiologist and an ENT specialist
This process involves the use of imaging, auditory examinations, and discussions regarding 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
Following a diagnosis of hearing loss in your infant, a number of solutions and resources are accessible to assist you get through this experience. With the assistance of pediatric hearing experts, 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.
Have questions about your baby’s hearing health? Get in touch with to us today for a full evaluation and personalized care 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.
