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Pediatric Audiology Services at SightMD

At SightMD, we specialize in pediatric audiology services, providing comprehensive hearing exams, diagnosis, and treatment options for children of all ages. Early detection of hearing problems is vital to ensure proper speech and language development. Our compassionate audiologists work with children and families to assess and manage hearing health effectively.

When to Bring Your Child to an Audiologist

It’s recommended to bring your child to an audiologist if you notice signs of hearing loss or if there’s a family history of hearing problems. Hearing should also be assessed in infants as part of their newborn screening. Additional reasons for a hearing test include:

  • If your child’s speech and language development are delayed.
  • After frequent ear infections or a history of fluid buildup.
  • If your child has trouble understanding simple instructions.

Early diagnosis and intervention are key to addressing hearing issues and ensuring proper language development.

Signs of Hearing Loss in Children

Hearing loss in children may be difficult to detect, especially in younger children who are still developing their language skills. However, common signs of hearing loss to look out for include:

  • Not responding to sounds or their name being called.
  • Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.
  • Speaking too loudly or too softly.
  • Delayed speech or language development.
  • Frequent ear infections or fluid in the ears.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule a hearing evaluation as soon as possible.

What to Expect From Your Pediatric Hearing Exam

A During your child’s hearing exam at SightMD, we focus on creating a comfortable and stress-free experience. Our audiologists use age-appropriate techniques to assess hearing. The test might include:

  • Behavioral tests for older children, where they respond to sounds.
  • Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) and Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) for younger children, where sound responses are measured from the ear or brainstem.

We tailor our approach based on your child’s age, so they feel safe and engaged throughout the process. Afterward, our team will explain the results clearly and recommend any necessary next steps.

Hearing Aids for Children

If your child is diagnosed with hearing loss, hearing aids may be recommended. Pediatric hearing aids are designed to meet the unique needs of children, with features that can grow with them. Our audiologists help guide families through the process of selecting the right hearing aids based on their child’s needs and lifestyle.

Additionally, we provide fittings and adjustments to ensure the best possible hearing experience for your child, helping them adapt to using hearing aids with ease.

Young boy being fitted for a new hearing aid device

What Do the Results from My Child’s Hearing Tests Mean?

Once your child’s hearing test results are ready, our audiologists will explain what the findings mean. This typically includes:

  • Audiogram Results: A visual chart that shows the range of sounds your child can hear, identifying the degree of hearing loss, if any.
  • Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE): Whether the inner ear is functioning properly.
  • Speech Understanding: How well your child can understand spoken words, which can indicate potential developmental delays.

Based on the results, a treatment plan will be developed, including options like hearing aids, speech therapy, or a referral to a specialist if needed.

Next Steps After Testing

If hearing loss is detected, we’ll discuss the next steps with you. These may include:

  • Hearing Aids: We’ll recommend and fit the appropriate hearing aids for your child.
  • Speech Therapy: If necessary, we may suggest therapy to assist with language development.
  • Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up exams to monitor hearing and ensure hearing aids are working properly.

Our goal is to provide a comprehensive approach to your child’s hearing care, helping them thrive in their speech and language development.

How to Make a Hearing Appointment at SightMD

To schedule your child’s hearing test, you can easily make an appointment with SightMD by calling our office or requesting an appointment online. Our dedicated team is here to assist with scheduling, answer questions, and guide you through the process of ensuring your child’s hearing health. Contact SightMD today to get started!