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Hearing
loss indicators
There
are conditions which may occur before birth, during infancy or
in childhood that may affect a child's ability to hear normally.
Outlined below are factors indicating that a child is at risk
for a hearing loss. If any of these conditions exist there is
a high-risk. If you are unsure about any of these conditions or
are worried about your child's hearing, consult a medical practitioner.
Newborns
- Birth to 28 Days
Family
history of hereditary childhood  sensorineural
hearing loss
In utero infection, such as cytomegalovirus, rubella, syphilis,
herpes and toxoplasmosis
Craniofacial deformities including those affecting the pinna and
ear canal
Birth weight less than 1500 grams (approx. 3.5 pounds)
Hyperbilirubinemia at a serum level requiring transfusion (jaundice)
Ototoxic medications (medicines that can damage hearing), including
aminoglycosides (some antibiotics e.g. Gentamicin) used in multiple
courses or in combination with loop diuretics
Bacterial meningitis
- Apgar
(general health) scores of 0-4 at 1 minute or 0-6 at 5 minutes
after birth
- Mechanical
ventilation lasting 5 days or longer
- Findings
associated with syndromes known to include
sensorineural hearing loss
Infants
- 29 Days to 2 Years
- Concern
regarding communication or developmental delay
- Bacterial
meningitis or other infections known to cause
sensorineural hearing loss
- Head
trauma associated with loss of consciousness or skull fracture
- Ototoxic
medications including chemotherapeutic agents or aminoglycosides
used in combination with loop diuretics
- Findings
associated with a syndrome known to include sensorineural
hearing loss
- Otitis
media with effusion (fluid) for three months or longer
Noise
Exposure
One of the most common, and yet completely preventable, causes
of permanent sensorineural hearing loss is noise exposure. High
levels of noise  can
cause temporary or permanent damage to the sensory hair cells
within the cochlea. Vehicles, appliances
and stereos, all produce noise which may be detrimental to hearing,
depending on how close the noise source is and the length of exposure.
In addition, some toys or computer games and certainly rock music
concerts may damage hearing.
Children should be taught the dangers of noise exposure and instructed
to use ear protection when necessary.
This
article courtesy of Phonak
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