Pediatric audiology is a specialized healthcare field focusing on diagnosing and treating hearing and speech disorders in infants and young children. Early detection of hearing problems is crucial for proper intervention and prevention of further issues. Behavioral, speech, and language delays are often the first indicators of a possible hearing problem, which can arise when a child has a hearing deficit.
Comprehensive Audiological Evaluations
Our licensed and certified pediatric audiologists perform medically-based, comprehensive hearing tests. These evaluations include a battery of tests to thoroughly assess a child’s hearing status. Results are provided to parents and relevant healthcare professionals, with our audiologists working closely with referring physicians to develop appropriate treatment plans.
The evaluation process may involve various tests depending on the child’s age and specific needs. These can include behavioral audiometry, where the child responds to different sounds, and objective tests like tympanometry to assess middle ear function. For infants and very young children, we may use specialized techniques like visual reinforcement audiometry.
Indicators of Child Hearing Loss:
Speaks loudly
• Attention problems
• Only responds when face-to-face
• Delayed reaction when spoken to
• No response when called upon
• Trouble following directions
• Frequent requests for repetition
• Turning up the volume on electronic devices
• Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments
Pediatric Hearing Aid Services
We offer the latest in hearing aid services for children, using evidence-based fitting methods like Live Speech Mapping. This technique ensures a perfect fit and allows patients and families to immediately understand the benefits of hearing aids. Our pediatric audiologists have extensive training and experience in providing and adjusting hearing aids for children of all ages.
The process begins with a thorough assessment of the child’s hearing needs, followed by the selection of appropriate hearing aids. We work closely with families to ensure the devices are comfortable, effective, and suited to the child’s lifestyle. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Testing
ABR testing measures the brain’s response to sounds and is useful for determining hearing thresholds in patients where conventional behavioral testing isn’t possible. Our state-of-the-art Vivosonic Integrity V500 allows for non-sedated testing on infants, children, and adults, including those with developmental disabilities or medical fragility.
During an ABR test, small electrodes are placed on the child’s head to measure brain activity in response to sounds played through earphones. This test can last between 30 minutes to 2 hours and provides valuable information about the child’s hearing sensitivity, even if they’re too young to respond to traditional hearing tests.
Hearing Screening Services
We provide hearing screening services for schools, early childhood centers, and industries. These screenings include otoscopy (examining the ear canal and eardrum), pure-tone hearing screening (testing responses to different pitches of sound), and tympanometry (assessing middle ear function). All screenings are performed by licensed and certified pediatric audiologists.
Regular hearing screenings are essential for detecting potential hearing issues early. For children, good hearing is crucial for normal speech and language acquisition as well as academic progress. Our screening services aim to identify any hearing loss that might interfere with a child’s communication, development, health, or learning.
Newborn Hearing Screenings
For infants who didn’t receive hearing screenings at birth, we offer this service within the first month of life. The test is short, painless, and performed while the baby sleeps. It involves playing soft clicking sounds in each ear and measuring the brain’s response to these sounds.
Early detection of hearing loss is critical for a child’s development. If a hearing loss is identified, we work closely with parents and healthcare providers to develop an appropriate intervention plan, which may include further testing, monitoring, or early intervention services.
Bilingual Services
The Hearing Group of NM offers comprehensive pediatric services provided by qualified bilingual (Spanish) providers and staff. This ensures that Spanish-speaking families can fully understand their child’s hearing health and treatment options.
What to Expect at a Pediatric Audiology Appointment
During your child’s appointment, the audiologist will discuss your concerns and your child’s medical history. They will perform necessary tests, which may include looking in the ears, testing middle ear function, and assessing hearing responses. The audiologist will explain any findings and provide information about any hearing deficits discovered. They will discuss treatment options, including their success rates, and answer any questions you may have.
If hearing aids or other interventions are recommended, the audiologist will explain how these work and what to expect. They may also provide resources for additional support and information about hearing loss in children.
Your Partner in Pediatric Hearing Health
At The Hearing Group of New Mexico, our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive hearing care for children. We understand the unique challenges of pediatric hearing loss and are committed to supporting both the child and their family throughout the diagnosis and treatment process.
With locations in Los Lunas and Albuquerque, we’re conveniently situated to serve families across New Mexico. Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced staff ensure that your child receives the highest quality care in a comfortable, child-friendly environment. We believe in a holistic approach to pediatric hearing health, working not just with the child, but also collaborating with parents, educators, and other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our goal is to help every child achieve their full potential by addressing their hearing needs early and effectively.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards better hearing for your child. Let us be your partners in ensuring your child’s hearing health and supporting their overall development and well-being.