The most common type of hearing loss among children is called sensorineural which occurs due to damage of the inner ear. The damage can be caused by an infection, injury or most commonly, through exposure to loud noise. This type of damage cannot be repaired.
Although sensorineural hearing loss cannot improve, it doesn't get worse either. The person has difficulty hearing softer sounds which can impair the ability to comprehend speech. This type of hearing loss can be corrected by using hearing aids. The other types of hearing loss are conductive and mixed. Conductive hearing loss occurs when the sound cannot be conducted through to the inner ear. Surgery can usually correct this type of hearing loss. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
What causes hearing loss in children
The most common cause of hearing loss in children is very loud noises. There are noises which you have control and others which you have no control.
Loud music, especially music played through headphones can damage the ears easily. Many children have been found to suffer from hearing loss caused by listening to very loud noises. Listening to loud music for over 10 minutes can cause permanent hearing loss. If your children listen to loud music consider telling them to turn it down a little.
Another possible cause of hearing loss is playing musical instruments loudly. It has been noted that children who play in a band or school orchestra are more likely to have hearing loss. If the music is played in a small room then this will be much more of a risk.
How can this be resolved?
Educate your children about noise induced hearing loss. Teach them the causes of hearing loss and what precautions to take.
First you should try to determine the safe volume level of mp3 players and other audio devices which your children listen with headphones. Make sure you listen to the music yourself so that you can decide what a safe volume is.
If your children are being exposed to loud noises, encourage them to wear earplugs. They should wear ear plugs while cutting the grass or practicing in the band.
The lesson here is to be forewarned. Use precautions and common sense to set limits for children. Teach them the importance of taking care of their hearing and help them understand when noise levels are too loud.
