Learning that an infant has hearing loss can be a devastating and emotionally challenging experience for many parents, leaving them feeling lost and uncertain about what the future holds. But the good news is: With early detection 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 infants with hearing loss. We’ll explore how they work and offer guidance on selecting the ideal solution for your child’s needs.
Comprehending Infant Hearing Loss
Causes of infant hearing loss: Various aspects to think about:
- 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 often administered in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
Early diagnosis is crucial. Infants in the United States go through hearing loss assessment before being discharged from the hospital. Pediatric professionals follow “1-3-6” hearing protocol.
- Screened by 1 month
- Diagnosed by 3 months
- Intervention (with hearing devices or therapy) begun by 6 months
Meeting these milestones gives infants the best opportunity for strong speech, language, and brain development. For personalized 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 solution for babies who have varying degrees of hearing impairment. These small, wearable devices amplify sound, helping babies hear speech and environmental sounds more clearly.
Hearing aids are:
- Appropriate for newborns just a few weeks old
- Designed with soft, comfortable ear molds that change as the baby grows
- Equipped with tamper-proof battery doors and pediatric-specific features
- Custom-programmed by a pediatric audiologist to fit your child’s hearing profile
As your baby develops, it will be necessary to routinely update and modify the hearing aids to guarantee they fit properly and work properly.
Cochlear Implants for Infants
If an infant has severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss and doesn’t benefit enough from hearing aids, a cochlear implant might be suggested.
Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants:
- Are surgically embeded
- Bypass damaged parts of the inner ear
- Convert sound into electrical signals that stimulate the auditory nerve directly
Cochlear implants are:
- Approved by the FDA for use in babies aged 9 to 12 months
- Achieve best results in tandem with therapy at an early stage and family support
- Recommended only after a thorough evaluation by an audiologist and ENT specialist
This process includes the use of imaging, auditory 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
Hearing Aids vs. Cochlear Implants: Concluding Thoughts
If your infant has been diagnosed with hearing loss, you have options and a lot of support. Thanks to the expertise of hearing specialists who work with children, most young patients are able to obtain language abilities that are comparable to those of their peers.
Whether your child is a candidate for hearing aids or cochlear implants, early action can make a lifelong difference.
Do you have any concerns regarding your infant’s hearing wellness? Call us now to schedule a complete evaluation and customized 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.