Pediatric Hearing Loss

What are the different types of hearing loss?

Hearing loss can be categorized by many different types. Two types of hearing loss are sensorineural and conductive. Both types of hearing loss can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired.

Sensorineural hearing loss

A loss of function within the inner ear or with the connection to the brain. Causes of this type of hearing loss include:

Congenital factors - conditions present at birth

• infection by the mother with toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes, or syphilis
• genetic factors and syndromes the child has at birth
• low birthweight
• hereditary - in the family

Acquired factors

• loud noise exposure
• trauma
• infections
• damage from certain medications that can be harmful to the ears

Conductive hearing loss

a problem in the outer or middle ear where sound waves are not sent to the inner ear correctly. Conductive hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss in children and is usually acquired. Factors that may cause this type of hearing loss are:

Congenital factors - conditions present at birth

• anomalies of the pinna (the outside of the ear)
• anomalies of the tympanic membrane (eardrum)
• anomalies of the external ear canal
• anomalies of the ossicles (the three tiny bones that deliver the sound waves to the middle ear)

Acquired factors

• excessive wax
• foreign bodies in the ear canal, such as beads or popcorn kernels
• tumors of the middle ear
• problems with the eustachian tubeear infections such as otitis mediachronic ear infections with fluid in the middle earperforation of the eardrum

Management of hearing loss

Early intervention and detection of hearing loss is necessary to prevent additional problems with speech and language development. A healthcare team approach is normally used when a child is diagnosed with some degree of hearing loss. Team members include the following:

• Audiologist: A professional who specializes in the evaluation and management of hearing and balance problems in people of all ages. Audiologists are also involved with the fitting and management of hearing aids and other assistive devices.
• Otolaryngologists: A physician with special training in medical and surgical treatment for children who have disorders of the ear, nose, and throat.
• Speech pathologist: A professional who helps evaluate and manage speech, language, and hearing problems in your child.

Specific treatment for hearing loss will be determined by your child's physician based on:

• Your child’s age, overall health, and medical history
• Extent of the condition
• Your child’s tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• Expectations for the course of the condition
• Your opinion or preference

Management of hearing loss may include one or more of the following:

• Use of hearing aids: Electronic or battery-operated devices that can amplify and change sound. A microphone receives the sound and converts it into sound waves. The sound waves are then converted into electrical signals.
• Cochlear implants: A surgically placed appliance that helps to transmit electrical stimulation to the inner ear. Only certain children are candidates for this type of device. Consult your child's physician for more information.
• Training in sign language and lip reading