Audiology
Conditions We Treat
Diagnosing Hearing Loss in Children
Hearing problems in young children can result from dozens of different causes. So a pediatrician may explore your child’s problem from a number of different angles. Diagnosis may include:
- Full medical history and possibly lab tests
- A complete physical exam
- Detailed questions about the hearing problem to help isolate possible causes
- Lab tests and imaging studies
- Referral to an otolaryngologist [link to Glossary] (ear, nose, and throat specialist), who will do an in-depth, hearing-specific examination. Diagnostic imaging studies may also be used
- Referral, to an audiologist for a full hearing evaluation
- Hearing Evaluations for Infants
Most hospitals routinely screen babies for hearing problems shortly after delivery. This enables medical professionals to take action early on if there’s a problem.
Pediatric tests determine whether sound is being conducted efficiently or if there’s any damage to a child’s inner ear or nerve pathways. Other tests determine if the baby’s brain is processing what’s being heard.
If your infant hasn’t been tested yet, talk with your pediatrician. In many communities, hearing screenings are offered at no or low cost through HMOs, clinics, and other health care organizations.
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