If you think your child has a hearing problem, you should contact your GP and arrange an appointment as soon as possible. Your GP will conduct a hearing test and examine the child to make sure their loss of hearing is not due to another condition which affects the ear (such as otitis media, glue ear or a perforated ear drum). If they are found to have problems with their hearing they can then be referred to a specialist for treatment.
If you are concerned about raising a deaf child or you simply need more information you can get in touch with the RNID, the British Deaf Association or the National Deaf Children’s Society. There is a lot of information on the NHS website, including links to charities and organisations that may be able to help you; you can also talk to your GP, health visitor or audiology specialist.
If you are diagnosed with a hearing impairment you may be advised to wear a hearing aid; nowadays hearing aids are much more discreet than in previous years and are much less visible. In some cases, when the impairment is caused as a result of another health condition, treating that condition may improve hearing. If the impairment is caused by damage to the tiny hairs inside the cochlea (sensorineural impairment) then a cochlea implant may be fitted; this involves a short procedure where the tiny device is inserted into the ear. A cochlea implant helps to process sound and transmit messages to the brain; it can only be used in patients that have healthy nerves in their ears.
Guide to Hearing and Speech Problems
How can I tell if my child has hearing problems?
What are the effects of hearing loss on development?
Getting help for hearing problems