Hearing Screenings Specialist

What are hearing screenings?

Hearing screenings at Astoria Pediatric PC use noninvasive methods to detect or rule out hearing impairment in kids and teenagers. Detecting hearing problems early can dramatically improve your child’s quality of life. The experts at Astoria Pediatric PC may refer your child to a specialist, if needed, to address the root cause of hearing impairment.

What are the signs of hearing impairment?

If your child has hearing problems, you may notice the following signs or symptoms:

• Speech delays
• Not speaking clearly
• Difficulty hearing things that other family members hear well
• Problems hearing teacher at school

Your child may struggle at school or get poor grades because of hearing impairment.

What are the risk factors for hearing impairment?

While any child can develop hearing problems, common causes include:

• Frequent ear infections
• Congenital deformities of the ear
• Ear injuries
• Being exposed to loud sounds
• Fluid buildup within the ear

The cause of hearing problems isn’t always clear. See the Astoria Pediatric PC experts at the first sign of a problem or if your child is due for a routine hearing screening. 

What should my child expect during hearing screenings?

During hearing screenings at Astoria Pediatric PC, your child rests comfortably on a chair or exam table. They often wear special headphones that emit tones at various frequencies. Your child simply raises your hand each time they hear a beep. If necessary, their provider may recommend additional hearing tests to detect or rule out problems. 

They also examine your child’s ears using a special light and review their medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms they may have.

How often does my child need hearing screenings?

Your child should undergo a hearing screening every few years, or more often if they have a history of ear infections or hearing problems. The experts at Astoria Pediatric PC can complete hearing screenings during well-child checkups. They let you know when your child is due for a hearing or vision screening.

How is hearing impairment treated?

Numerous treatments can improve the underlying cause of hearing impairment. Your child might need surgery to place tubes in their ears to drain fluid buildup, other types of ear surgery, or a hearing aid. Their Astoria Pediatric PC provider may recommend watchful waiting if the hearing impairment is minimal. Your child might also see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.

To schedule a hearing screening for your child at Astoria Pediatric PC, call the office or use the online booking tab today.