Some pregnancies are more challenging than others. In some cases, difficulty in conceiving a child may result in congenital disorders in childbirth. One of the most common congenital disorders is hearing loss or complete or partial hearing loss at birth. Although hearing loss is a common condition diagnosed in children, new parents may still have questions about the disorder, and here are some of them.
1. What Are the Types of Congenital Hearing Loss?
A common type of hearing loss is conductive hearing loss. It is a hearing loss caused by fluid in the middle ear. There are times when efficient drainage of the fluid occurs, and there are also times when the liquid remains stagnant. The condition can be temporary or permanent.
Meanwhile, sensorineural hearing loss is the more common type of hearing impairment. It is usually progressive, and it usually occurs when the nerve that sends sound to the brain is damaged. The damage can occur before, during or after birth.
2. What is Mixed Hearing Loss?
Mixed hearing loss is a type of hearing loss involving conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. Mixed hearing loss is often caused by a combination of fluid in the middle ear and damage to the nerve or damage to the nerve and fluid in the middle ear.
The type of hearing loss is diagnosed during the newborn hearing screening. Early detection is crucial to be corrected as soon as possible. It is essential to let the parents know to get a better understanding of the problem.
3. What Causes Congenital Hearing Loss?
Congenital hearing loss results from a defect or malformation in the structure of the newborn’s ears. It is not caused by anything in the environment. Some potential causes of congenital hearing loss include genetic factors, infection during pregnancy and a mother’s exposure to certain conditions or medications.
4. What Are the Symptoms of Congenital Hearing Loss?
Most babies with congenital hearing loss are born with normal-looking ears. There are, however, some physical symptoms of hereditary hearing loss. For example, an infant may be taken with a small ear or with a huge ear. Babies with hearing loss may also have a high-pitched cry, they may have trouble sucking, they may have difficulty sleeping, and they may be very fussy.
The newborn screening test is vital for the early detection of hearing loss. If a child is not screened and has a hearing problem, they will not learn to walk or talk when they are older. There are some common symptoms of hearing loss. The child will have difficulty disciplining, listening to instructions and responding to sounds.
5. Is There a Cure for Congenital Hearing Loss?
In most cases, the type of hearing loss is permanent. There are, however, some treatments available for the condition. For example, surgery may be conducted to repair the middle ear. In most cases, surgery is effective in restoring hearing.
A child with hearing loss should ensure that the child receives a hearing aid. The aid is necessary so that the child can have an easier time hearing in a noisy place. There is also behavioural treatment available for parents of a child with hearing loss. The therapy will help the parents and the child better communicate and adjust to the condition.
Conclusion
Congenital hearing loss is an issue that should be handled properly. If a newborn has the condition, there are several steps the parents and the doctors can take to ensure that the child can function normally. The state may be permanent, but it can be improved with treatments.
Hear More Associates is one of the best hearing clinics in America. Found in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Londonderry, we pride our hearing specialists who help our patients get the best out of their hearing. If you’re looking for the best hearing aids, schedule a consultation through our website today.
