Part 1: Common Questions Parents Ask About Childhood Hearing Loss
Normally parents do not think about their child being affected by hearing loss until they are diagnosed. As a parent, we understand you want to learn everything you can about your child’s condition. Luckily the internet contains several valuable websites and resources. However, we understand the amount can be overwhelming.
To assist you in your quest for knowledge, we’ve provided this list of questions commonly asked by parents regarding hearing loss in children:
- Why did this happen to my child?
Hearing loss in children could be linked to several factors, both genetic and non-genetic. In fact, hearing science experts estimate 1 in every 300 babies is born with some degree of hearing loss. Various tests will be performed to determine of your child’s hearing loss.
- Why is my child being referred for Genetic Testing?
This is essentially part of the hearing loss testing process. Genetic testing is performed to determine whether your child’s hearing loss is due to non-genetic or gene-related causes. This helps determine if your other children could be afflicted with hearing loss as well. The full genetic evaluation will also determine if there are other health conditions that need to be addressed.
- What is the likelihood that this will happen with my other children?
If testing does conclude the hearing loss is genetic, specialists can determine the probability your other children will also experience hearing loss. If both parents carry an autosomal recessive gene, then the likelihood that this will happen in another child is 1 in 4 (25%).However, if even one parent carries a autosomal dominant gene, then the likelihood that this will happen in another child is 1 in 2 (50%). Normally the adult carrying the autosomal dominant gene will also suffer some degree of hearing loss.
- What could have caused my child’s hearing loss?
Statistics show half of all hearing loss in children is due to genetic (hereditary) factors. Other factors, including illness or loud noises, account for nearly 25% of hearing loss causes in children. However, keep in mind nearly 25% of reported hearing loss sources are never identified.
We at Professional Audiological Services sincerely hope this information has provided you with the answers you needed or helped generate further questions to ask your audiologist. Stay tuned for the second part of our common questions parents ask about hearing loss blog series. Our team will cover hearing aids, communicating with your child, and other online resources.
If you notice your child not responding to their name or reaching common milestones, please contact our offices to schedule an appointment. Your child’s hearing is just as important to us as it is to you!
