Paediatric Hearing Loss

Hearing is essential to a child’s development. From learning to speak to succeeding in school and building friendships, good hearing supports every part of your child’s growth. But hearing loss in children isn’t always obvious. This guide helps parents understand the signs of hearing loss, what causes it, and how a paediatric ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist like Dr Brett Leavers can help.

Types of hearing loss in children

Hearing loss in children can vary in cause, severity, and how it affects everyday life. The most common types include:

• Conductive hearing loss – Caused by blockages or issues in the outer or middle ear, such as fluid build-up, earwax, or infections.
• Sensorineural hearing loss – Involves damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve and is often permanent. It may be present from birth or develop later.
• Mixed hearing loss – A combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
• Unilateral hearing loss – Hearing loss in just one ear, which can still affect learning and safety.

Signs of hearing loss in children  

Many children don’t realise they have hearing problems. As a parent, look for signs like:

• Delayed or unclear speech
• Turning up the volume too high
• Not responding when called
• Trouble hearing in noisy places
• Frequent ear infections
• Frustration, tiredness, or withdrawal

If you notice any of these, consider a hearing check.

Why early detection matters

When hearing problems are picked up early, treatment is often more effective. Left untreated, hearing loss can affect:

• Language development – Children learn to talk by hearing others. Delayed hearing can lead to slower speech and language skills.
• Learning – Kids with hearing difficulties may miss instructions, fall behind, or struggle in group settings.
• Social skills – Poor hearing can make it harder to connect with others, leading to low confidence or frustration.

The earlier treatment begins, the better the long-term outcomes.

When should a child see an ENT specialist?

Your child may benefit from seeing an ENT if they:

• Have repeated ear infections
• Have fluid in the ear lasting more than 3 months
• Show delayed speech or language development
• Complain about ear pain, ringing, or blocked ears
• Don’t seem to hear as well as other children

Common causes of hearing loss in children

Hearing loss in children can come from many sources:

• Middle ear infections (otitis media)
• Fluid build-up behind the eardrum (glue ear)
• Genetic conditions
• Head trauma or infections like meningitis
• Noise exposure (especially over time)
• Birth complications or prematurity

How ENT specialists help children with hearing loss

Dr Brett Leavers provides evidence-based care tailored to each child. Management may include:

Hearing assessment

• ENT specialists work with audiologists to assess hearing levels and check ear health.
• Tests may include tympanometry and hearing tests suited to your child’s age.

Medical treatment

• Treating infections or allergies that cause fluid in the ear
• Using medications or watchful waiting depending on the case

Surgical options

• Grommets (ear tubes) to help drain fluid and prevent infections
• Adenoid or tonsil removal when these cause ear issues

Supportive therapies

• Working with speech pathologists
• Using assistive listening devices in classrooms or at home

ENTs also guide parents on creating a hearing-friendly environment for learning and play.

Common ENT conditions in children  

In addition to hearing loss, ENT doctors often help children with:

• Recurrent ear infections
• Enlarged adenoids and tonsils
• Nasal congestion or sinus issues
• Breathing or snoring problems
• Voice or speech-related ENT concerns