Pediatric Hearing Loss
Pediatric Hearing Loss Services
At Spokane ENT, we provide comprehensive evaluation and management of pediatric hearing loss, which can have significant impacts on a child's speech, language, and cognitive development. Hearing loss in children can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in childhood due to various causes including genetic factors, infections, trauma, or medical conditions. Early identification and intervention are crucial for optimal outcomes, as hearing is essential for normal speech and language development. Our team performs thorough evaluation including detailed history taking, physical examination, and age-appropriate audiometric testing to assess the type, degree, and configuration of hearing impairment in children.
We utilize specialized diagnostic techniques designed for pediatric patients, including behavioral audiometry, visual reinforcement audiometry, and play audiometry for older children, as well as objective testing such as otoacoustic emissions and auditory brainstem response testing for infants and young children who cannot participate in behavioral testing. Our evaluation includes assessment of both ears, identification of the type of hearing loss (conductive, sensorineural, or mixed), and determination of the severity. We work closely with pediatric audiologists and other specialists to obtain comprehensive hearing assessments and develop individualized treatment plans. Our team also evaluates for associated conditions such as speech and language delays, developmental concerns, or underlying medical conditions that may contribute to or result from hearing loss.
Our treatment approach for pediatric hearing loss is tailored to the child's age, type and severity of hearing loss, and individual needs. For many children with hearing loss, hearing aids can provide significant benefit and are typically fitted as early as possible to support speech and language development. We work closely with pediatric audiologists to provide comprehensive hearing aid evaluation, fitting, and ongoing follow-up care. For children with severe to profound hearing loss who receive limited benefit from hearing aids, we offer evaluation for cochlear implants or bone conduction implants. Early intervention services, including speech and language therapy, are essential components of comprehensive care. Our team collaborates with families, educators, and other healthcare providers to ensure children with hearing loss receive the support they need to reach their full potential in communication, education, and social development.
Pediatric Hearing Loss Partners
The Spokane ENT pediatric hearing loss program works closely with Providence Cochlear Implant, Providence Hearing Centers, and the HOPE School to ensure children with hearing loss receive world-class care and achieve the best outcomes. Our collaborative approach brings together the expertise of surgeons, audiologists, hearing specialists, and specialized educators to provide comprehensive support throughout the entire journey, from initial evaluation through treatment, device fitting when indicated, and long-term rehabilitation.
Pediatric Hearing Loss Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Causes include genetics, infections (ear infections, CMV), birth complications, certain medications, or syndromes. Early identification through newborn screening and follow-up is important.
Evaluation includes hearing tests (age-appropriate), tympanometry, and sometimes imaging or genetic testing. Audiologists and ENTs work together to determine the type and cause.
Options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, bone conduction devices, ear tubes, or medical/surgical treatment for underlying causes. Early intervention improves language development.
Hearing is critical for speech and language development. Children with hearing loss benefit from early amplification and therapy to maximize communication skills.
See an ENT if your child fails newborn hearing screening, has delayed speech, doesn't respond to sounds, or has recurrent ear infections. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes.