For parents of newborns, finding out that their baby has hearing loss will feel overwhelming and discouraging. Babies who have hearing loss can do well with early detection and treatment, which is good news. Yes, they can even cultivate language, communication skills, and strong connections with the world around them, leading to a vibrant, rewarding life!
Hearing aids and cochlear implants are two extremely helpful tools for assisting infants with hearing impairments.
Comprehending Hearing Loss in Babies
Causes of infant hearing loss: Numerous aspects to think about:
- Genetic factors (even without a family history)
- Infections present at birth like cytomegalovirus (CMV) or rubella.
- Problems that may arise during childbirth, such as oxygen deprivation or premature birth.
- Medications often administered in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
The most important step? Early detection. Babies in the United States undergo hearing loss assessment before being discharged from the hospital. Pediatric hearing experts follow the “1-3-6” guideline:
- Screened by 1 month
- Diagnosed by 3 months
- Intervention (with hearing devices or therapy) begun by 6 months
Reaching these developmental milestones is crucial for infants to achieve optimal progress in speech, language, and cognitive growth. For individualized advice on these screenings, don’t wait to reach out to your pediatrician.
Hearing Aids for Babies
Hearing aids are usually the first treatment option for infants who have differing degrees of hearing loss. These little, wearable devices amplify sound, helping infants hear speech and external sounds more clearly.
Hearing aids are:
- Appropriate for infants just a few weeks old
- Designed with soft, comfortable ear molds that change as the baby grows
- Equipped with tamper-proof battery compartments and pediatric-specific features
- Custom-programmed by a pediatric audiologist to fit your child’s hearing profile
As your infant develops, it will be necessary to regularly update and modify the hearing aids to ensure they fit properly and work effectively.
Cochlear Implants for Infants
If a baby has severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss and doesn’t improve enough from hearing aids, a cochlear implant might be suggested.
Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants:
- Are embedded with a surgical procedure
- Restore hearing by bypassing inner ear damage
- Convert audio into electric impulses that directly activate the hearing nerve
Cochlear implants are:
- FDA-approved for infants as young as 9-12 months
- Most effective when paired with early therapy and family support
- Only recommended after a comprehensive assessment by an audiologist and an ENT specialist
This procedure involves the use of imaging, auditory exams, and dialogues 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
Hearing Aids vs. Cochlear Implants: Concluding Thoughts
If your infant has been diagnosed with hearing loss, you have options and plenty of assistance. With the assistance 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 baby’s hearing health? Contact 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.
