Traits Of Deafness And Hearing Impairment In Children!

Hearing impairment or deafness is a problem that can affect children of all ages. If the condition is not treated early on, hearing problems can lead to problems in their language and speech development. This is caused due to their poor auditory response to the sound.

For older children, hearing problems are difficult to detect, as their speech skills have been developed already. 

Traits of Deafness in Children

The symptoms can vary among children but certain traits are common that indicate deafness.

Speech development issues

Speech delay is one of the earliest signs of hearing problems in children. Doctors say that children who do not utter single words by the age of 1, or phrases comprising of two words by the age of 2 might be suffering from hearing issues.

Usually, by the age of 2 years, toddlers can identify common objects and obey simple commands. However, children suffering from deafness are not able to do so as they are unable to communicate with others. This is because they cannot understand the spoken language.

Inability to communicate clearly

A child having moderate hearing issues may develop speech skills around the same age as other children. However, children of pre-school age might face communication problems. They might face difficulty in responding to questions and expressing themselves.

These kids might have improper pronunciation, a peculiar voice, intonation.

Behavioural traits

Certain behavioural characteristics are observed among children suffering from hearing problems. They may listen to the radio or watch television with the volume turned up very high. They might also imitate the behaviour and mannerisms of their peers. This symptom is called echopraxia.

Dizziness and disorientation are also observed as the nerves in the ears control the body balance. They may also face academic problems and get irritated.

Selective hearing

Some children may show signs of selective hearing, where they might not be able to hear certain sounds. They might unintentionally avoid instructions given by their parents or teachers.

Ways to support a child having hearing problems

Medication

A specialist must be consulted. The doctor may suggest medication for curing the issues. Additionally, hearing aids might be prescribed. Children as young as 1 month old can use these.

Implants

Doctors may put hearing implants also called cochlear implants inside the inner ear to help them hear well. These are chosen when hearing aids do not work properly to mitigate the issues.

Communicate

Talk about the problems with the child and the steps that will be taken for curing them. Make sure the child does not feel isolated.

Treating the hearing issues early on in the child’s life is vital for getting the necessary medical assistance. Talk to the doctor and get educated about the ways through which you can contribute to help the child.