Most
babies with hearing loss benefit from hearing aids and other
amplification devices. It may be hard to imagine how a little
baby can be fit with a hearing aid. Many audiologists specialize
in working with young children. These specialists will be
able to help you. There are many new technologies available
today and it can be hard to sort through these choices. The
following section includes important background information
on hearing screening, hearing loss and causes of hearing loss.
A section on amplification (hearing aids and cochlear implants)
will inform you about issues to consider with babies and young
children.
Newborn
Hearing Screening
Perhaps your baby's hearing was screened soon after birth
at the hospital. You may be wondering about the tests and
what the results mean for your family. This section answers
several questions family members often ask about hearing
screening.
All
About Hearing Loss
This section includes information on the ear, how it works,
and types of hearing loss. We will describe the various
tests that are used to measure hearing in infants and young
children. You will have an opportunity to hear what various
hearing losses sound like.
Hearing
Aid Choices
If you search the internet, you will find that there are
many different types and styles of hearing aids. This section
describes various types of hearing aids and how they work.
It includes information on how hearing aids are fit on babies.
A useful feature is the inclusion of practical tips, like
how to check your baby's hearing aid and how to keep the
hearing aid on your infant.
Cochlear
Implants
Cochlear implants are hearing devices designed for children
with severe and profound hearing loss. These devices involve
surgery. This section includes information on the surgery,
implant devices and what to expect from them. Techniques
and resources for helping your baby learn to listen are also
described.
Causes
of Hearing Loss
Many parents wonder what caused their baby's hearing loss.
Sometimes hearing loss is inherited (genetic). There can
be other medical causes for a hearing loss. This section
provides information on possible causes of hearing loss
in infants.
Glossary
This section includes many of the terms that relate to hearing,
causes of hearing loss and hearing devices. These terms
are defined and explained.
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