The cause of hearing loss in children
In the digital age, children are surrounded by the screen and sound. Ear headphones, video games, YouTube videos, tiktok ... all can cause children's ears to be damaged if used improperly.
Dr. Ravi Bhatia - a specialist of Otolaryngology at the Max Patparganj Super Specialist Hospital (India) - Warning: "Listening to music at a large volume for a long time, especially through headphones, which is an increasingly common cause of nerve hearing loss in children. This is an irreversible damage."
Not only noise, many other factors such as otitis media, allergies, viral infections during pregnancy or even genetics also contribute to this situation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 60% of hearing loss in children can be prevented.
Simple ways to protect children's hearing
Periodic hearing testing:
From 4 - 10 years old is an important period of language development. Dr. Bhatia recommends: "Parents need to take their children to check their hearing periodically periodically, especially when children show signs such as slow speaking, no reaction to sound or regularly turning the TV volume."
Breastfeeding:
The first 6 months of life is the time when the immune system is weak. Breastfeeding completely during this period helps prevent many diseases, especially ear infections - the leading cause of the loss of hearing.
Full immunization:
Measles, mumps, rubella, meningitis - infections can cause serious hearing damage. Make sure children are fully vaccinated, especially MMR and prevent meningitis.
Keep the ear dry when swimming:
Swimming is a good activity but it is necessary to dry the baby's ears after swimming to prevent bacteria from penetrating and causing inflammation.
Restricting noise:
Minimize contact with loud sound: Do not take children to a noisy place (such as festivals, concerts), limit the volume of headphones, avoiding large machinery near children.
Control of colds and allergies:
Respiratory and allergic infections are the culprit causing ear clogging and otitis media. The definitive treatment and recurrent prevention is essential.
Reduce the time to use electronic devices:
Dr. Bhatia said: "Excessive use of the screen causes children to be inactive, increase exposure to large sounds, leading to the risk of hearing loss and audio processing disorders."
Prenatal care for pregnant women:
Pregnant women should avoid exposure to toxic chemicals, adequate vaccination and regular antenatal care. Diseases during pregnancy such as cytomegalovirus or toxoplasma may cause congenital hearing nerve damage to the fetus.
