Hearing loss in children has the potential to negatively impact speech and social skills development - which is why early detection matters.

At Hearsafe Australia we are passionate about hearing protection and helping Australians look after their hearing health. If you are concerned about hearing loss in children, the guide below covers the basics.

Different types of hearing problems in children

There is a range of hearing issues children can be born with or develop over time, and they may be temporary or permanent. Causes of temporary hearing loss include a build-up of wax in the ear canal, excess mucus in the eustachian tube from a common cold, or an ear infection such as otitis media.

Permanent hearing loss may be due to hereditary conditions where the inner ear has not fully developed, diseases such as meningitis, or exposure to loud noise such as firecrackers or loud music.

Signs your child may be experiencing hearing loss

• Complaining of a ringing sound in their ears
• Not responding when their name is called
• Speaking too loudly
• Watching television or playing games with the volume excessively loud
• Pronouncing words incorrectly

If you have any concerns about your child's hearing, have them professionally tested as soon as possible.

Treatment

Depending on the severity, there are various treatments available. Hearing aids can amplify sound, and regular visits to a speech therapist may also help. If the hearing loss is due to otitis media or another ear infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. Your GP or an audiologist is the right person to advise here.

Reducing noise exposure

Where your child may be exposed to loud noise - a concert or a fireworks night, for example - take precautions. Depending on the age of the child, noise-reducing earmuffs or earplugs are recommended. See our earplugs for children, or read more on teaching your kids healthy hearing.

For more information, get in touch with our team or browse the range online.