It is sometimes difficult to figure out if a child is simply ignoring a parent or if there is some type of hearing problem. Parents often do not want to consider the possibility that their child could have a hearing loss. There are two major types of hearing problems-episodic or congenital (acquired). Episodic hearing problems are caused by infections and are treatable. Three children out of every 100 have episodic hearing problems.

Significant hearing loss can be caused by infections. A fluid build-up that is not draining could be causing the hearing loss. Often, once the fluid is drained, the hearing loss resolves. If your child has a history of infection, is sitting too close to the TV, or is saying 'What?' a lot, you should have his or her hearing checked. The same is true if your child does not startle to loud sounds.

Acquired hearing losses are found to be caused by a number of factors: if the mother has rubella, is the child has meningitis or if there is a family history of hearing problems. At that time, the child should be screened early. This is also true if the child is severely jaundiced, has had a blood transfusion or is premature. These children are at a high risk of having a hearing loss.

Severe hearing losses are not always evident at birth. Deaf children develop normally until they are about seven months old, and then the hearing loss becomes noticeable. These children stop repeating sounds-like 'ma, ma' or 'da, da'. It is also important to monitor how they are reacting to sound-whether it is visually or auditorially. Are they seeing you talk or actually hearing you say things? If the child has a hearing loss, they will not be able to learn how to talk as quickly.

Physicians try to have the child identified and in rehabilitation by the age of six months. At this time, hearing aids can be used and this will help the child develop communication skills. Contact American Hearing Laboratories to see how we can help.