What are hearing tests for children?These tests measure how well your child is able to hear. Although hearing loss can occur at any age, hearing problems in infancy and early childhood can have serious consequences. That's because normal hearing is essential for language development in babies and toddlers. Even a temporary hearing loss can make it harder for a child to understand spoken language and learn to speak.Normal hearing happens when sound waves travel into your ear, causing your eardrum to vibrate. The vibration moves the waves farther into the ear, where it triggers nerve cells to send sound information to your brain. This information is translated into the sounds you hear.Hearing loss happens when there is a problem with one or more parts of the ear, the nerves inside the ear, or the part of the brain that controls hearing. There are three main types of hearing loss:Conductive. This type of hearing loss is caused by a blockage of sound transmission into the ear. It's most common in infants and young children and is often caused by ear infections or fluid in the ears. Conductive hearing loss is usually mild, temporary, and treatable.Sensorineurual (also called nerve deafness). This type of hearing loss is caused by a problem with the structure of the ear and/or with the nerves that control hearing. It may be present at birth or show up late in life. Sensorineural hearing loss is usually permanent. This type of hearing loss ranges from mild (the inability to hear certain sounds) to profound (the inability to hear any sounds).Mixed, a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.If your child is diagnosed with hearing loss, there are steps you can take that may help treat or manage the condition.Other names: audiometry; audiography, audiogram, sound test
