Dr. Laura Feldhake of Premier Hearing Solutions states that it is important to test your baby's hearing in the first three weeks of life, if possible,  prior to discharge from the hospital.  The test is best done when your baby is quiet or sleeping.

Infants who referr from their newborn hearing screen at the hospital should receive a follow-up diagnostic audiolgical evaluation before 3 months of age.  This evaluation serves to verify the existence of a hearing impairment, and when present, the etiology and severity.

Why is it important?

Everyday in the United States, approximately 1 in 1,000 newborns (33 babies a day) is born profoundly deaf with another 2-3 out of 1,000 babies born with partial hearing loss.  This makes hearing loss the number one birth defect in America.  Without newborn hearing screening, the average age of detection of hearing loss is between 2 and 3 years of age. Hearing loss that goes untreated may lead to speech and language delays, as well as delays in school. However, delays may be lessened or avoided if a hearing loss is discovered early and the infant receives treatment.

What causes hearing loss in newborns?

There are many causes of hearing loss in newborns.  Some may be temporary and medically treated.  For example, a blockage in the ear canal, or fluid in the middle ear may cause a hearing loss.  Some hearing loss is permanent and may only be corrected by hearing aids, cochlear implants or other listening devices.  Hearing loss may also be passed on in families.  Sometimesthere is no known cause for hearing loss in newborns.

What does it mean if my baby does not pass this test?

It does not mean that your baby cannot hear. It only means that your baby needs to be screened again in a few days. If your baby does not pass the second screen he/she will need to see an audiologist (hearing specialist ) for a complete test to find out for sure ifthere is a hearing loss, and if so what kind of a hearing loss it is.

The audiologist will evaluate exactly how loud different sounds need to be in order for the baby to hear them.  Your baby should see the audiologist before three months of age.

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Dr. Laura Feldhake, Audiologist of Premier Hearing Solutions, reminds us that some babies do not have hearing loss at birth but may develop hearing loss later on in life. If a hearing loss is suspected at any time, please talk to you health care provider or schedule an appointment with an audiologist who specializes in infant hearing.

Babies who can hear at birth sometimes develop hearing loss later on due to illness, injury, or other causes. This checklist tells you what to expect as your baby grows.

0-4 MONTHS

Startles to or is awakened by loud sounds. Quiets to the sound of a familiar voice.

4-6 MONTHS

Turns toward or looks for a familiar or new sound. Likes rattles and toys that make sound.

Seems to recognize mother's voice.

6-12 MONTHS

Turns or looks up when called by name. Imitates sounds and pitches. Understands the meaning of no and bye bye.Uses voice to get attention. Begins to respond to requests.

12-18 MONTHS

Uses 4-5 words by 18 months. Points to at least one body part when asked. Understands one step commands such as sit down,or close the door.

18-24 MONTHS

Uses 10-15 words by age 2. Likes music. Points to familiar objects when you name them.

Puts two words together by age 2.

24-36 MONTHS

Uses 200 words by age 3. Listens to radio or television at same loudness as other people.

Hears when called from another room. Uses two to three word sentences. Strangers understand most of your child's speech.

If your child cannot do these things at the ages listed, talk with your health care provider and ask to see an audiologist for hearing tests.