"The reluctance to accept reality will lead to loss of precious time for early intervention. The child too will be denied a chance to grow into a normal human being," said Dr A.K. Lahiri, head of ENT department at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. We nee to catch them young, he added.

Former Indian cricketer Syed Kirmani, the brand ambassador of Widex India -- a leading manufacturer of digital hearing aids, was beside Dr Lahiri for the panel discussion on ‘hearing loss in children’ organised by the company here on Tuesday.

The ideal time for detection of hearing loss and subsequent interventions is within six months after baby’s birth, opined all the panelists, including paediatrician Dr Jagdish Chinnappa, senior audiologist Saji Maruthurkara and Widex-Denmark regional manager Mads Prebensen besides Dr Medikeri and Dr Lahiri.

"If detected early, majority of the children can develop normal speech and language with the help of hearing aids," they said.

The hearing aids are available in various forms -- behind the ear (BTE), in the canal (ITC), completely in the canal (CIC) and body worn hearing aids -- could be used three months from birth.

"Last two decades have shown tremendous progress from body worn hearing aids to cochlear implants, where even powerful hearing aids fail to work," Dr Lahiri said.

The panelists also stressed on the role of parents in training children once the hearing aid is fitted.

"Training requires parents’ commitment and professional guidance. Constant monitoring is required and parents’ role is more important than that of speech therapists," said audiologist Maruthurkara.

From NewindPress