In shortNot responding to their name, delayed speech or a very loud TV can signal hearing loss. Most causes, like fluid in the ear or wax, are treatable when found early.
"He never listens!" is a classic parent complaint. Sometimes it is just a child being a child. But sometimes the cause is that the child simply cannot hear well. Because hearing is the foundation of speech and learning, it is important not to miss it. So how do you know if your child is hearing well? Here is what I tell parents at my ENT clinic in HSR Layout.
Milestones to watch
Signs your child may not hear well
- Does not respond when called, or often says "what?"
- Turns the TV volume up high or sits very close
- Delayed speech, or words that are unclear
- Seems inattentive or is struggling at school
- Frequent ear infections, ear pulling or a history of fluid in the ear
What causes hearing problems?
The most common cause in children is fluid behind the eardrum, sometimes called glue ear, often after colds or allergies. Others include wax blocking the ear canal, repeated infections and, less often, a hearing loss that was present from birth or developed later. Most causes are treatable, and early treatment protects speech and learning.
How is hearing tested?
There are gentle, child-friendly tests for every age, from newborn screening tests to play-based and standard hearing tests for older children. The ear is also examined to look for wax, fluid or infection. None of these tests hurt.
Please do not wait for a child to 'grow out of' speech delay without a hearing check. It is simple, quick and answers an important question.
Protect the hearing you have
Good habits
- Keep headphone volume at moderate levels
- Use the 60/60 rule: 60% volume for 60 minutes at most
- Treat colds, allergies and ear infections promptly
- Have a hearing check if you have any doubt
Avoid
- Loud music or videos through earphones
- Firecrackers close to the ears
- Cotton buds and objects in the ear
- Ignoring a child who repeatedly says "what?"
See a doctor in HSR Layout, Bangalore
CARE Speciality Clinic offers ENT care and hearing checks in HSR Layout with Dr. Rekha AR, open Monday to Saturday. Patients come from Agara, Koramangala, BTM Layout, Sarjapur Road, Bellandur and Haralur. Book online or call 96320 71178.
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Consultant ENT Specialist, MBBS, DLO. Sees patients Mon–Sat at CARE Speciality Clinic, HSR Layout.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation.