Deafness

Hearing loss occurs as a result of problems relating to the structure or the function of a part or several parts of the ear; it is estimated that around 3 in 1,000 babies in America are born with some degree of hearing impairment. Hearing impairment is the most common type of birth defect. Hearing loss is a severe form of hearing impairment that can be caused by a variety of different factors; in most cases, congenital deafness (where the baby is deaf from birth) is caused by a sensory birth defect or an infection which affects the mother during pregnancy; Rubella (commonly known as German measles, often contributes to hearing loss or deafness in the child).

All babies are tested for hearing problems and these tests quickly flag up any potential issues. Treatments to improve hearing currently include wearing a hearing aid, using digital aids and having procedures such as a cochlear implant; some treatments may not be effective for children with particular types of hearing problem or certain types of inherited condition or syndrome. In order to help the child, parents, relatives and carers will have to adapt quickly to living with a deaf child; it is helpful for them to learn sign language so that they can communicate with the child and build a strong relationship. Early treatment has been proven to be much more effective than treatment later on in the child’s life; usually treatment should begin before the child reaches six months of age.

For more information on hearing loss, visit our guide to hearing loss.

Sensory Birth Defects

• Sensory Birth Defects
• Blindness

• Deafness
• Cataracts