Symptoms
Delayed speech or language, inconsistent response to sound, frequent requests for repetition, school difficulties, or concerns after newborn screening.
Hearing conditions
Pediatric hearing loss
Hearing differences in infants, children, and teens that can affect communication and learning.
Causes
Genetic factors, infections, fluid or ear disease, noise exposure, medications, and other conditions may contribute.
Risk factors
Family history, NICU stay, certain infections, recurrent ear infections, and exposure to ototoxic medicines.
Testing
Age-appropriate hearing testing can be performed for infants, children, and teens. Early assessment is important when concerns arise.
Treatment
Care may include medical treatment, hearing technology, communication support, educational accommodations, and family-centered intervention.
When to seek medical attention
Contact a pediatric clinician promptly for concerns about a child’s hearing, speech, balance, ear pain, drainage, or a sudden change in response to sound.
Which professional can help?
A pediatric audiologist can perform age-appropriate testing. A pediatrician and pediatric ENT can evaluate medical causes and coordinate care.
Find a hearing-care professionalThis guide is educational and is not a diagnosis. A qualified clinician can help you understand symptoms in the context of your personal health history.