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How Audiology Services Can Help Your Child Recover from Illness

Audiology can play a vital role in helping children during cold and flu season, especially when symptoms like repeat ear infections arise. 

Chronic ear infections can sometimes cause long-term damage to the ear structures; audiologists help detect early signs of complications, ensuring timely referrals for medical or surgical interventions. 

Audiologists work closely with pediatricians and ENTs to manage recurrent ear infections effectively. This team approach ensures comprehensive care, especially if infections are causing speech, language, or developmental delays due to hearing difficulties. 

Anatomy of the Ear

There’s a canal that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and is responsible for several functions in the ear that can be affected by viral infections like a cold or the flu. The canal’s responsible for pressure equalization, fluid drainage, and protection, so it’s essential to maintain functionality to protect children from painful infections and potentially permanent hearing loss.  

Symptoms that Could Affect Your Child's Hearing Health

Congestion 

Pressure from swollen sinuses can sometimes affect the middle ear and lead to muffled or distorted hearing. As congestion clears, muffled sounds should become clear again.  

Recurrent Ear Infections  

Continuous infections can lead to temporary hearing loss due to fluid buildup in the middle ear. Audiologists can conduct hearing tests to assess the extent of any hearing loss and monitor recovery as the infections resolve. 

Residual Fluid 

Even without infection, residual fluid after a cold or ear infection can cause temporary hearing difficulties. This can impact a child's ability to hear soft sounds or speech clearly. 

High Fevers 

High fevers during illnesses can lead to temporary hearing changes, and, in rare cases, prolonged high fever may damage auditory nerve pathways. 

Inner Ear Inflammation 

Certain viruses, such as measles, mumps, or the flu, can cause inner ear inflammation or nerve damage, potentially leading to temporary or permanent hearing loss. 

Dizziness 

Viral infections can sometimes affect the inner ear, causing vestibular issues like dizziness or balance problems. This may indirectly impact a child’s perception of sound. 

After visiting the doctor to treat an illness, and your child has: 

• trouble hearing 
• difficulty following directions 
• hearing only in one ear 
• residual hearing loss 

consulting an audiologist early on is crucial to ensure their hearing and speech development aren’t adversely affected.