
Did you know that approximately four out of every 1,000 children are born with hearing loss? Research also shows that by the age of 12, nearly 20 percent of children develop some degree of hearing loss. This can occur due to various reasons, from head injuries and illnesses to prolonged exposure to loud noises or certain medical treatments.
Naturally, as a parent, the mention of hearing loss can be alarming. But take a deep breath; hearing loss in children can be either temporary or permanent. With the support of expert ENT specialists and access to affordable ENT care, hearing can often be restored. In some cases, children with permanent hearing loss can still hear certain sounds with the help of hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Common Pediatric ENT Concerns
Ear infections are another common concern among babies and toddlers. In fact, studies show that five out of six children will have at least one ear infection by the time they turn three. One of the most frequent causes of ear-related issues in kids is otitis media, or middle ear infections.
To prevent complications, it’s essential to schedule hearing tests. Some babies are born with hearing challenges, while others may develop issues later. Any child who does not pass a hearing test should undergo an advanced audiology assessment.
Conductive hearing loss is also common in infants, occurring when sound waves are unable to reach the inner ear. It may be caused by something as simple as earwax buildup or fluid in the ear. At Samaritan, we have improved many cases of conductive hearing loss in children with medical treatment or surgery.
Advanced Hearing Assessments for Children
For toddlers, two main types of hearing assessments are commonly used. One is play audiometry, where a child responds to sounds through play-based tasks. The other is visual reinforcement audiometry, designed for children aged 6 months to 2 years, where a child is trained to turn toward a sound source and receives visual rewards for correct responses.
Tinnitus, the perception of ringing in the ears, is another condition that affects children. Pediatric tinnitus is surprisingly common, with research showing that about 15 percent of children experience it chronically. While many cases resolve on their own, it's something that shouldn’t be taken for granted.
Why Choose Samaritan?
For over four decades, Samaritan has been a trusted name in quality ENT care across eastern India. With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of top specialists, we treat a wide range of ear, nose, and throat conditions. Our pediatric ENT department in Kolkata is among the best, equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive surgical technologies.
Whether it’s diagnosing and managing hearing loss, tinnitus, balance disorders, or otitis media, we’re here for your child. Our experienced and compassionate pediatric ENT team works closely with families to understand your kid's needs. If you want quality and affordable ENT care for your child, Samaritan is the place to contact.
Sukanat Kaur: Great article! Really informative.
Moumita Sikdar Kaur: Awesome article