We usually associate hearing loss with being elderly, however, young people can also suffer from hearing loss. Infants, children, and young adults could develop hearing problems from any of the following: genetics, lifestyle, and pre-existing medical conditions. No matter the patient’s age, hearing loss can significantly impact their life. The sense of hearing is one of the most important senses, as it is used to learn, communicate, and navigate the environment and world.
Younger people with hearing problems should be evaluated at a hearing center. This is a facility that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of hearing problems. Let’s talk about what you can expect at a hearing center.
Hearing Evaluations
Hearing evaluations are performed at hearing centers. A hearing test measures the sensitivity of hearing. Different tests are used according to the patient’s age and ability to respond. Infants and young children may be tested using sensors that do not require a response or the otoacoustic emissions (OAE) test, which involves delivering sounds to a small earphone and measures the response of the inner ear to different sounds.
Older children may undergo the pure-tone test, also known as audiometry. During this test, the child will put on headphones, which will receive a series of sounds. The medical professional will change the pitch and volume of the tones throughout the test, and ask the child to respond by pressing a button or raising a hand whenever they hear a sound. The pure tone test can identify hearing loss at certain frequencies.
Another test that is commonly used in younger children is the tympanometry (impedance audiometry) test. The goal of this test is to determine how well the middle ear is working and check whether there is fluid in the middle ear or if there is damage to the eardrum.
Audiologists
Doctors of audiology, or audiologists, are medical professionals that are usually found in hearing centers. They help with identifying, assessing, and managing hearing disorders. Audiologists can treat very young patients, as well as adults of all ages. They not only conduct hearing evaluations but also help patients with choosing the best hearing device for them. Children, whether very young or older, can wear hearing aids. With proper-fitting hearing devices that meet the young patient’s needs, hearing loss can be managed well.
Hearing Center in Georgetown, TX
Dr. Abeda Mueed is our clinical audiologist at Georgetown ENT. She is ready to serve all your family’s hearing needs. Dr. Abeda teaches children in different Austin area schools the importance of hearing protection and hearing healthcare and promotes customized hearing protection for children. She knows how to make very young patients feel comfortable in our clinic for a successful evaluation and treatment. Dr. Mueed loves helping children by improving their hearing and preventing worse outcomes. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mueed, call our clinic today at (512) 869-0604 or use our convenient online request form.
Georgetown ENT not only has an audiologist but also an otolaryngologist or ENT on staff, which allows us to provide comprehensive treatment to children with hearing problems.
