subject: How You Can Prevent Hearing Loss In Young Children [print this page] Hearing loss or deafness occurs when a person suffers from partial or complete loss of hearing. One can either be deaf right from birth or develop the condition later in life. There are many factors that can render one deaf. These factors include;
Genetics
Pre-natal illnesses
Substance or drug abuse by a mother during pregnancy
Prolonged exposure to loud noises
Injury to the head area or directly to the ear
Childhood diseases
Aging
Illnesses and infections affecting the mother while pregnant
Children born with low birth weight
Children who suffer from jaundice
People suffering from deafness usually have to learn how to use the sign language. This makes conversation easier between deaf people and those who do not suffer from the ailment. In some cases, people suffering from hearing loss also suffer from blindness. If deafness is observed and treated during the first three months of life, then chances of a complete recovery are greatly increased. It is now recommended that children should get their hearing tested before they leave the hospital after birth. Follow-up screening and tests should be done on a regular basis. These tests check for fluid behind the eardrum or for a hole in the eardrum.
Most hearing loss cases can be prevented in children. The first and biggest responsibility usually falls on the mother. This is because, some of the causes of deafness are as a result of the mothers conduct during pregnancy. For example, it is only the mother who can decide to avoid taking harmful drugs during her pregnancy. Loud noices should not be made near young children. This can be done through the use of protective gear such as headphones which are devised to keep noise levels to acceptable decibels.
In addition, children should be advised to keep the volume down when watching television or when listening to music. They should also be made to take breaks from these devices so that their ears can take a break. To prevent head injuries from some sporting activities, protective gear such as helmets should always be worn. This is particularly important during bicycle rides and horse riding. For very small children, care givers should avoid falls that could result in serious injuries. Children should also be discouraged from putting items in their ears such as seeds, sticks and beads. These could also cause damage to the eardrum if pushed in too deep.
How You Can Prevent Hearing Loss In Young Children
By: Peter Gitundu
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