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 has in store. But the bright side is: With early detection and intervention, infants with hearing loss can thrive. Indeed, they are capable of acquiring linguistic skills, refining their communication techniques, and forming profound connections with their surroundings, inevitably giving rise to a rich and satisfying existence.
Two of the most effective tools for assisting babies with hearing loss are hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Understanding Infant Hearing Loss
Hearing loss in babies can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Hereditary traits (even in the absence of a family background)
- Genetic infections including cytomegalovirus (CMV) or rubella
- Issues that may arise during childbirth, including oxygen deprivation or premature birth.
- Medications commonly administered in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
Early diagnosis is critical. That’s why babies in the United States are screened for hearing loss before they leave 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) begun by 6 months
Reaching these developmental milestones is critical for babies to achieve optimal progress in speech, language, and cognitive growth. For personalized guidance on these assessments, don’t wait to reach out to your pediatrician.
Hearing Aids for Babies and Toddlers
For babies with mild to severe hearing loss, hearing aids are frequently the first line of treatment. These small, wearable devices amplify sound, helping babies hear speech and external sounds more clearly.
Hearing aids are:
- Suitable for infants just a few weeks old
- Crafted with gentle, cozy earpieces that adjust according to the baby’s growth
- Featuring secure battery doors and child-friendly design elements
- Specially individualized by a pediatric hearing professional to fit your child’s unique hearing needs
As your infant grows, it will be required to regularly update and modify the hearing aids to ensure they fit correctly and work effectively.
Cochlear Implants for Infants
A cochlear implant may be suggested for a baby with extreme to profound sensorineural hearing loss who does not obtain adequate benefit from hearing aids.
Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants:
- Are surgically embeded
- Recover hearing by bypassing inner ear damage
- Translate sound into electrical signals that energize the auditory nerve directly
Benefits of Cochlear Implants:
- Endorsed by the FDA for use in infants aged 9 to 12 months
- Most successful when paired with early therapy and family support
- Only recommended after a comprehensive assessment by an audiologist and an ENT specialist
This process includes imaging, hearing tests, and discussions about long-term expectations 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 Concluding Analysis
Following a diagnosis of hearing loss in your baby, a number of solutions and resources are available to help you navigate this experience. With the help of pediatric hearing experts, 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 action can make a lifelong difference.
Have questions about your child’s hearing health? Contact 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.