Learn about pediatric hearing loss

How common is hearing loss in newborns?

Four out of every 1,000 newborns are born with some degree of hearing loss.

How does hearing loss affect children?

Hearing is a critical part of a child’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. Even the presence of a mild hearing loss can affect a child’s speech and language development.

Is newborn hearing screening mandatory?

Washington state requires newborns to have a hearing screening before being discharged from the hospital to detect hearing loss at birth. Those who have or are planning on giving birth at home or at a birthing center should make it their priority to have their child screened within the first three weeks of life.

Through early detection it is possible to treat a child’s hearing problems so that they can develop the same as their peers. The Doctors of Audiology at Evergreen Speech & Hearing Clinic recommend that your child’s hearing gets screened early and evaluated regularly in order to empower and better your child’s life.

Reasons Your Child Might Have and/or Develop a Hearing Loss

Premature birth
Complications during birth
Infections at birth such as cytomegalovirus (CMV), Rubella, and herpes simplex
Placement on mechanical ventilation system after birth
Admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia or needing ECMO therapy
Repeated courses of IV antibiotics or diuretics
Diagnosis of a syndrome such as Down, Usher, Alport or Treacher Collins
Family history of permanent childhood hearing loss
Exposure to loud sounds or noises