KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Signs of Hearing Loss in Children

Hearing plays a critical role in a child’s development, especially with language and communication skills. Children learn speech and language from listening to others. The first few years are particularly critical for development. When hearing loss exists, a child does not get the full benefit of language learning experiences. Detecting hearing loss early ensures children get the support they need for healthy development.

• Delayed Speech Development - If a hearing loss goes unnoticed, delays in speech and language learning can occur. If your child isn't speaking as much or as clearly as expected for their age, it could be a sign of hearing loss.

• Lack of Response to Sounds - Children with hearing loss might not respond when their name is called or when there are loud noises nearby, especially if they can’t see the source of the sound.

• Struggling in School - Hearing difficulties can cause children to struggle academically, as they may miss instructions, conversations, or important details during class.

• Frequent Ear Infections - Chronic ear infections can lead to hearing loss. If your child frequently complains of ear pain or has repeated infections, their hearing may be affected.

• Turning Up the Volume - A noticeable preference for higher volumes on devices like TVs, tablets, or phones might indicate that your child is having trouble hearing normally.

• Inattention or Behavioral Issues - Some children with undiagnosed hearing loss may appear distracted, disobedient, or withdrawn, which could be linked to their inability to hear properly.

Specific Signs for Infants:

• Stops early babbling
• Experiences fluid draining from ears
• Frequently pulls at their ears (with fever or crankiness)
• Frequently gets colds and ear infections
• Does not say single words by 12 months
• Does not respond when called
• Needs things to be repeated
• Does not understand someone unless he/she is facing them

Specific Signs for School-Age Children:

• Speaks loudly or turns up the volume of the TV frequently, disturbing other listeners
• Speaks using incomplete sentences
• Seems unable to follow oral directions
• Avoids, stumbles, or gets stuck on certain words and sounds
• Has difficulty playing or communicating with friends
• Has problems swallowing or chewing
• Has frequent or long-term hoarseness
• Is unable to control the volume of their speech appropriately
• Has a history of chronic ear infections

INFANTS & CHILDREN

Milestones for Development

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Signs of Hearing Loss in Adults

Hearing loss in adults can happen gradually, making it easy to overlook. Recognizing the signs early allows for timely treatment to help prevent further deterioration and improves quality of life.

• Sound Quality - Speech and other sounds seems faint and are often muffled, distorted, slurred or lack clarity.

• Difficulty Following Conversations - Struggling to follow conversations, especially in groups or in places with background noise, is a common early sign of hearing impairment.

• Asking People to Repeat Themselves - If you frequently find yourself asking others to repeat what they’ve said, especially in noisy environments, it could be an indication of hearing loss.

• Avoiding Social Situations - If you’re feeling frustrated or embarrassed because you can’t follow conversations in social settings, you may begin avoiding these situations altogether, which could be a sign of hearing loss.

• Turning Up the Volume - Like children, adults with hearing loss often find themselves increasing volumes on devices like TVs, tablets, or phones to hear more clearly.

• Missing Phone Calls or Doorbells - Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, such as the doorbell, phone ringing, or alarm clock, is another warning sign.

• Ringing in the Ears - A constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears can be an early indicator of hearing loss or Tinnitus.

Assess your Hearing

We believe that understanding your hearing health is the first step towards better communication and quality of life. Complete this simple 25-question quiz from the comfort of your home to help you identify potential hearing challenges, paving the way for a personalized assessment.