For parents of infants, finding out that their baby has hearing loss will feel overwhelming and discouraging. But the bright side is: With early diagnosis and intervention, babies with hearing loss can thrive. Yes, they can even develop language, communication skills, and strong connections with the world around them, resulting in a dynamic, rewarding life!
Two of the most useful solutions for assisting infants with hearing loss are hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Comprehending Hearing Loss in Babies
Hearing loss in babies can be caused by a range of factors, including:
- Hereditary characteristics (even in the absence of a family background)
- Genetic infections like cytomegalovirus (CMV) or rubella
- Issues that may arise during childbirth, including oxygen deprivation or premature birth.
- Medications often administered in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
The most significant step? Early diagnosis. Babies in the United States undergo hearing loss assessment before being discharged from the hospital. Pediatric specialists follow “1-3-6” hearing protocol.
- Screened by 1 month
- Diagnosed by 3 months
- Intervention (with hearing devices or therapy) begun by 6 months
Reaching these developmental milestones is essential for babies to achieve optimal progress in speech, language, and cognitive growth. If you need guidance on these assessments, your pediatrician will be glad to help!
Hearing Aids for Babies and Toddlers
For infants with mild to extreme hearing loss, hearing aids are frequently the first line of treatment. These small, wearable devices boost sound, helping infants hear speech and environmental sounds more clearly.
Hearing aids are:
- Suitable for infants just a few weeks old
- Crafted with gentle, cozy earpieces that adapt according to the baby’s growth
- Outfitted with tamper-proof battery compartments and pediatric-specific features
- Custom-programmed by a pediatric audiologist to match your child’s hearing profile
As your infant develops, it will be necessary to routinely update and modify the hearing aids to guarantee they fit correctly and work properly.
Cochlear Implants for Infants
If a baby has extreme to profound sensorineural hearing loss and doesn’t benefit enough from hearing aids, a cochlear implant might be recommended.
Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants:
- Are implanted with a surgical procedure
- Bypass damaged parts of the inner ear
- Convert sound into electrical signals that stimulate the auditory nerve directly
Cochlear implants are:
- Endorsed by the FDA for use in infants aged 9 to 12 months
- Most effective when coupled with early therapy and family support
- Only suggested after a comprehensive assessment by an audiologist and an ENT specialist
This process includes the use of imaging, hearing 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 Options: A Final Analysis
Following a diagnosis of hearing loss in your infant, numerous choices and resources are accessible to help you get through this journey. With the assistance of pediatric hearing specialists, many children go on to establish language skills that are on par with their peers.
Whether your child is a candidate for hearing aids or cochlear implants, early intervention can make a lifelong difference.
Do you have any concerns regarding your infant’s hearing wellness? Call us now to schedule a comprehensive evaluation 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.
