Testing Your Child's Hearing

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PHILADELPHIA, March 29, 1996 -- The following was Issued by Carol Knightly, Pediatric Audiologist, Children's Seashore House:

How do you know if your child has a hearing problem? From the day of birth, an infant's hearing ability can be accurately tested. If you think your child has the slightest hearing or speech problem, take your daughter or son to an audiologist, a specialist in hearing testing and hearing loss. A loss of hearing can result in developmental delays and many missed learning experiences.

Hearing loss affects approximately three million American children under the age of 18. Causes of hearing problems include repeated ear infections, head injuries, medical complications before, during and after birth, and a family history of hearing loss.

What are some of the warning signs that a child has a hearing problem? A newborn who does not startle, move or cry at unexpected loud noises should be taken to an audiologist. Infants who do not babble, have stopped babbling, or does not turn his or her head in the direction of your voice should also be chocked. Toddlers with a hearing problem often show signs such as not responding to a first call, or not advancing their language skills. The key is to be observant of your child's behavior which could Indicate a hearing problem.

With the help of state-of-the-art equipment designed specifically for children, audiologists can accurately evaluate your child's hearing. Once your child's hearing Is tested, an audiologist can assess the extent of any hearing loss, Identify the cause and recommend an appropriate treatment program. They can tell you what kind of hearing aids or other assistive listening devices are available for your child, as well as counsel your family regarding the impact of hearing loss and options for language and educational programs.

If your child has hearing loss that goes undiagnosed, many important learning experiences will be missed. Therefore, it is important that you seek professional help from an audiologist if you're unsure of how well your child is hearing. Remember, a child is never too young to have a hearing test, and there are many treatment options available.

Carol Knightly is the acting director of the Audiology Department at Children's Seashore House, a pediatric rehabilitation hospital located in Philadelphia. Children's Seashore House has more than 25 years of experience with children and hearing problems. All the audiologists hold their master's degree, with special training In prevention, identification, assessment and non-medical treatment of hearing disorders. Most of them have also completed their fellowships specifically in pediatric audiology.

May is National Hearing and speech Month.

CONTACT:Kajsa Haracz of Children's Seashore House, 215-895-3846