When people think of hearing screenings, they tend to think of older adults that are in need of hearing aids. The fact is that hearing screenings aren't limited to adults. Children and infants should also have their hearing screened. The sooner a child can be fitted with a hearing aid, the better. Here's why you should have your infant screened for hearing defects.

Most Infants Do Have Their Hearing Screened

According to Pediatrix, about 95% of newborn babies have a hearing screening during the first month following their birth, and about one out of every one thousand babies is found to have some hearing impairment. Most of the time, an infant hearing screening takes place in the doctor's office. However, seeing an audiologist may be a better option.

A pediatrician can only do a general hearing screening. An audiologist can provide a more in-depth diagnosis. If anyone in your family was born deaf, it's a good idea to have your child's hearing tested by an audiologist shortly after birth.

Early Testing Allows for Early Intervention

One of the best reasons to have your infants' hearing tested is that early interventions are essential for treating hearing loss. Hearing loss can affect development. It can affect speech development and other areas of development. Having a problem diagnosed early on can help to remove developmental barriers to speech and other areas of development. The sooner an infant gets used to wearing a hearing aid, the more they stand to benefit from it.

Hearing Loss Is Not Easily Recognizable in Newborns

Hearing loss is almost undetectable in newborns. It can be hard to judge on your own if your baby can hear properly or if they need a hearing aid. Taking your baby to an audiologist is the most reliable way to get a definitive answer about your baby's hearing ability. If the screening comes back all clear, you'll be able to rest easy knowing everything is well. If there are problems, the audiologist will have solutions.

Hearing screenings for newborns are painless. They take about ten minutes, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, and most babies are unbothered by them. Hearing screenings are as important as vision screenings and baby checkups. Reach out to our audiologist at Advantage Hearing Center today to learn more.