Pediatric Hearing Loss

Educational Gap Hearing loss is a common condition presenting in children. Speech and language outcomes for children with hearing loss are related to identification of the hearing loss and to the degree of hearing loss. Early identification and appropriate, prompt intervention yield better outcomes. An understanding of the relevant anatomy, common causes, testing strategies, and management of hearing loss can help the primary care physicians maximize communication development in children. Objectives After reading this article, the reader will be able to: 1. Provide a basic overview of the anatomy of the ear and discuss implications for conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. 2. Discuss the importance of newborn hearing screening and provide details on how this testing is accomplished. 3. Discuss some of the causes of hearing loss in children. 4. Detail interventions that may be appropriate in children with hearing loss.