Deafness in children
Poor hearing is a serious problem for children. It affects their ability to learn to speak, read and be educated.
One in every 1000 children is born with a significant hearing problem. About another one in 1500 will develop such problems in childhood.
There are differing degrees of hearing loss, referred to as mild, moderate, severe and profound. Medically, the word ‘deaf’ is used for those who are born with profound hearing loss.
There are several reasons why a child may be born with hearing loss. If the mother catches certain infections, such as rubella (German measles) in early pregnancy the baby's hearing may be damaged. Some drugs can have the same effect.
Sometimes deafness is inherited. Lack of oxygen at birth and being born prematurely may also affect hearing.
When serious hearing loss occurs after birth it is usually due to infections, drugs or injury.
Modern treatments mean that it is now possible to help many children with hearing problems, dramatically improving their lives.
The outlook for these children depends very much on how early treatment begins. This should be before the age of 2 years and preferably before the child is one year old.
Although most parents of affected children will suspect there is a problem from an early age, they may delay in seeking advice. This guide to normal hearing development may help.
- 0-4 months — baby is startled by loud noises.
- 4-6 months — baby looks towards sounds.
- 6-9 months — baby turns head towards sounds and responds to own name.
- 9-12 months — child copies simple sounds ‘mama’, ‘dada’ and so on.
- 12-18 months — child says simple words and follows simple instructions.
It is possible to test the hearing of very young children. If you have any doubts about your child's hearing, seek medical advice.
Last Reviewed: 17 August 2006
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